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MOBILIA, 

A NOVEL, 


BY- 


GEORGE ERNEST MILLER, 


—AUTHOR OF— 

6 4 

"Conrad,” " Gatheringia “ Luxilla “Corolene,” Etc. 


_ JUL 5 1886 

£>„ 13 , OTA N 
^ Of 


Copyright, by the Author, 1886. 

(ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.) 


‘‘SPEAK OF ME AS I AM : NOTHING EXTENUATE, 


NOR SET DOWN AUGHT IN MALICE.” 


CHAPTER I. 
— 4 * — 




An eldery gentleman, appearing to be about fifty years of age, 
sat, or rather reclined in his easy chair, on one of those broad 
porches, (galleries, so called in that region,) of a Southern country 
residence. 

From his seat he could see, in front, the wide waters of the 
Mississippi River sweeping by, and, by a slight turn of the head, 
his broad acres, formerly bearing a rich frution, but now showing 
some neglect, occasioned by the cruel war then waging, which not 
only drew the white population to the front, but unsettled all 
classes of labor, business and means of communication. 

Yet Mr. Lane was a very rich man. His neighbors said he was 
certainly worth a million dollars, if ante bellum values could be 
counted on. 

Though possessed of wealth, there was a minor undertone, or 
accompaniment to the melody of prosperity, common to so many 
of our virtuosi of trade, and that was bad health. 

About four months before this time he had received a heavy fall 
from a spirited horse; the bad effects of which, added to a never 
very strong frame, were now showing themselves in extreme fee- 
bleness. 

“Link,” said Mr. Lane, as a fine looking man approached with 
a waiter, on which was a bottle of choice Port wine, “tell one of 
the girls to hand you the latest paper from my wife’s room, and 
I will see if strength will let me read what the boys are doing at 
the front. ” 

It was a mulatto whom he addressed, about thirty years old, 
and so light a color was he that only an adept could tell him from 
a Creole, common to that warm climate, especially as his features 
were almost entirely Caucasian. 


4 


MOBILIA. 


This individual was owned and raised by Mr. Lane, who h • 
him as a valet de chambre , and there seemed to be a g r 
of affection between them. 

Link could read and write, and was of incalculable use tc 
his master in the daily management of a large estate; in fact, he 
often acted as amanuensis, in the absence of one regularly employ- 
ed to keep the books and papers. When the paper was handed to 
Mr. Lane, he put on his spectacles and read the heading slowly, 
with a trembling hand: — “ ‘Mobile, July ioth, i86-,’ - blessed 
home of my birth and earliest recollections ! Link ! take it and read 
to me, for such memories have been brought up that my eyes are 
too wet and dim,- but wait! You have always been faithful to 
me, boy, and I am going to tax that faithfulness by asking you 
to do a cruel thing; but, if you love me, it will be done. 

“Freedom was promised to you years ago, at my death; the only 
hinderance to granting it then, being the great service you were 
to me. 

“Give me your hand, and look me in the eyes ! There now ! 
Listen: — I’m not going to live but a few weeks. When I am 
gone, you must steal my child from its mother, and take it where 
you are told. Look in my desk drawer, and a letter will give in- 
structions! ” 

CHAPTER II. 

— * — 

“Let us find the picture about the Death of Custer! It is in the 
Virginia Department, near here somewhere ! ” exclaimed a pretty 
and sprightly blonde to a party visiting the New Orleans Exposi- 
tion, of which she was a member. 

The leader of this party was Mr. Clairo, a wealthy Philadelphian. 
Not being in very good health, a short time before this, during the 
Winter, he determined to visit Florida, and also to see the New 
Orleans Exposition, on the way. He was over sixty years of age, 
and, when at home, lived with his only son, whose family consisted 
of himself, wife and three children. 


MOB ILIA. 


5 


Mr. Clairo Jr. had two girls and one boy. The eldest was Miss 
Callie, aged twenty; then came Mr. Harry, of eighteen summers, 
and Miss Alice, of five. 

All of these named were in the party, and, in addition, Mrs. 
Fresco, and Miss Gybe, a maiden lady, both friends of Mrs. Clairo. 

Little Alice’s nurse was along also. Mr. Alexander Clearview, 
a young man of about thirty, said to be a great admirer of Miss 
Callie, had absented himself for a short while, and the rest were 
waiting for him. 

In response to Miss Callie, who had made the remark about 
going to see the picture, Mr. Clairo Sr. said, and his word was al- 
ways considered as authority by all: — “I see Mr. Clearview 
coming now. He is a minute man, and promised to meet us ex- 
actly at four o’clock.” 

She turned and waited for the young man, who joined the party 
and shook hands all around, until he came to little Alice, the last. 

“This is little Alice, of whom I have heard so much ! Can you 
give me a kiss?” exclaimed he, lifting her from the side of the 
nurse and kissing her twice. The party then walked along, the 
young man taking his position by the side of Miss Callie. 

Mr. Clearview was a good looking man, of a complexion that 
might be called mixed type, neither fair nor dark. 

He was of that slendor mold, which combines grace and poetry 
of motion, and when distance had been overcome in attractiveness, 
nearness was pleased by an expressive gray eye, and face decidely 
Grecian in its tendency, but made very masculine by the large fore- 
head and firmness displayed in the lower part of the face. 

He belonged to a prominent New York law firm, being the jun- 
ior member, and so eminently successful had he been from the very 
start, that his partner, a wealthy and influential member of the bar, 
for half a century, had often expressed himself, that it would al- 
most be impossible for him to get along without Clearview. 

Our young friend was a great ladies’ man, and, though possess- 
ed of arduous duties, he found ample time to pay them devoirs of 
society. 


6 


MOB ILIA. 


Clearview had often been called fast; but if such imputations 
were brought up, in shape of insinuations, behind his back, in his 
presence not only were the clouds of dislike dispelled, by the sun- 
shine of his countenance and elegance of his manners, but impres- 
sions were left, when he was gone, like the mellow Autumn-tinted 
glow of evening. 

This seemed to be particularly the case with the fair sex, and 
though he laid no claims to aristocracy, if any of the “sets, ” noted 
for their frigidty, touched his circle, an inexpressible warmth of na- 
ture would melt those barriers down. This was curious, as he had 
been a country boy. 

Miss Callie seemed to be on intimate terms with him, as if they 
were old acquaintances, and such they were, if being thrown to- 
gether a great deal at Saratoga, Old Point Comfort, and White 

Sulphur Springs, for two seasons, could make them so. 

# 

She was very pretty, attractive in conversation, and some said 
they were engaged. If it were so, it had never been “announced,” 
after the fashion in the North. 

The report was also, it would be a desirable match financially 
for Clearview ; for the young lady would not only inherit a por- 
tion of her father’s large fortune, but that of her grandfather, which 
was still larger. She now seemed very much pleased with his com- 
pany. 

They soon arrived before the picture for which Miss Callie was 
looking, and all stood gazing at the exciting scene, except Clear- 
view. 

He had seen it before, but did not tell them so, and now his 
eyes, wandering, fell upon the nurse of little Alice. 

How curiously she appeared ! Her dark eyes were bright with 
quiet and passionate excitement ; dilating as she bent forward to 
gaze at the picture. 

Beholding the young man looking at her, she turned away and 
paid some attention to the child. 


MOB ILIA. 


7 


CHAPTER III. 

— * — 

It was five minutes to eight o’clock, and Clearview sat in the St. 
Charles Theatre alone, Waiting for the curtain to rise, before which 
“Nevada” would appear in “Lucia di Lammermoor.” 

He was restless, for a telegram had been received from his firm 
in New York, in regard to some business that had terminated bad- 
ly ; and he knew that if he had been there to manage the matter, 
a successful ending would have been brought-about. 

How the people crowded in ! many of whom he knew or had 
seen before ; for the wealthy and blite of the country generally tend 
toward the same points, in their search for recreation and amuse- 
ment. 

As he gazed upon couple after couple, with the glance of a con- 
noisseur, one met his eye which caused a deep thrill of excitement 
to pass through his whole being. A large man, with piercing black 
eyes, dark hair, heavy moustache and beard, was escorting Miss 
Callie Clairo to her seat, whose evening dress was resplendent with 
diamonds. 

“Who are they ? ” whispered a stylish looking lady, leaning over 
to her companion, just in front of him. 

“It is Miss Clairo, of Philadelphia, and a Spanish gentleman. I 
saw them together at Newport once, last Summer. 

“She is very wealthy, but he will never get her; she is engaged 
to a New York lawyer.” 

Just as this information was given, the curtain arose, and, though 
it was a practice not indulged in by so elegant a gentleman as our 
friend Clearview, a deep oath, in an undertone, preluded the fol- 
lowing remark “DeBalbao again ! after ten years. I thought he 
had been cleared out of my way ! But no, dark nightmare, thou 
art here again ! ” 

When the first act was ended, he gazed a moment at Miss Callie, 
and her escort, who seemed to be very much infatuated, arose sud- 
denly, and, in a few moments was at the street door. 


8 


MOB ILIA. 


“Where are you going, Mr. Clearview ? ” said a voice at his side, 
Looking up, he beheld Mrs. Fresco and Miss Gybe, escorted by 
Mr. Clairo Sr. 

It was the first named lady who addressed him, as they passed 
out the same door. 

“I am going your way, if you will allow an addition to your 
company. Mr. Clairo, permit me?” and he took her on his arm. 

“In answer to your question,” said Clearview, as they walked 
towards the hotel, “I was very restless ; music did not seem to 
charm me, for once, and it seemed as if my bed would be the prop- 
er place for me. But why do you all leave so early ? ” 

“We heard people all around us giving such bad reports about the 
safety of the Theatre, that as soon as it could be done, without 
causing notice, we came out. Some said, it is liable to fall down, 
and one of the galleries did sink a little, several nights ago, when 
Patti sang in ‘La Traviata’,” replied Mrs. Fresco. 

“That is certainly bad ; but the papers say it has been properly- 
repaired since,” added Clearview. 

“It may be so,” continued she, “but we could not sit with the 
impression upon us. 

“Why are you alone to-night, Mr. Clearview ? ” 

Mrs. Fresco was a good friend of his. She and he had been 
thrown together a great deal in society, and they had both had oc- 
casion to render each other important courtesies and favors. 

Married when quite young, at her parents’ wishes, against her 
own will, to an aristocratic, gay and fashionable young soldier, 
about ten years her senior, her life, though being free from any want 
of luxuries, had not been a happy one. 

Her husband inherited a large fortune, but soon ran through it 
all by his fast life, and was encroaching on hers, when friends pre- 
vailed upon her to put an end to it forever. 

They did not live together now, - he spending his time in the far 
West, or in Europe, and she, being admirably gifted, ruled as onq 


MOB ILIA. 


9 

of the quieens of society, in the circles in which she moved. Clear - 
view’s law firm had been the means of extricating her from some of 
her troubles, and he had taken no unimportant part in the proceed- 
ings. 

Being about thirty-two, she had had at least fifteen years of exper- 
ience in society ; living in the atmosphere of which, she was able 
to feel the pulse, tell the trouble, and to prescribe for the ailments 
of one, should he or she not be thoroughly acclimated. 

But she felt as if the young man by her side were almost her 
equal, and congenial sympathy existed between them When 
doctors are ill others prescribe ! 

In the existence of life there are two countries, - the Masculine 
and the Femine spheres, and between is the border-land of Society. 

Though upon this intermediate ground, the inhabitants of both 
spheres meet, and breathe the common atmosphere of gossip, sen- 
timent and enjoyment - some encroaching farther than others- few 
men pass clear over into 'the Feminine sphere, a different country, 
life and atmosphere, and few women into that of the Masculine. 
Those who ever reach far into that of the other, require the guid- 
ing hand of deep thought and inspiration. 

Having no children, Mrs. Fresco had abundant time at her dis- 
posal to devote to her inclinations and friends, and had dived deep- 
ly into the caverns of human motives ; sometimes to find beautiful 
gems, but mostly the dark repulsiye rocks and sand. 

In answer to her question, Clearview replied “I was not in 
the humor to entertain a young lady ; and you know my principle 
is, nevet to go with one unless I can do my share of the conver- 
sation.” 

“Are you certain you are not encroaching on the lady’s prov- 
ince, or prerogative, then ? ” asked she. 

“No, as man’s masculinity inspires love in woman, to be returned 
two folds, so are his thoughts and ideas, though more rugged, nec- 
essary to create interest in conversation, and evoke those delicate 
feminine ways of expression,” replied he. 


IO 


MOB ILIA. 


“Then how do you account for Saxe’s expression ‘The femi- 
nine gift of ready speech ? ’ You must recognize that woman is more 
fluent, generally speaking, than man, and it is certainly her prov- 
ince to entertain,” added she. 

They were about to cross the street, but the way was obstructed 
by the car, from which a gentleman alighted, addressing them in a 
well known voice and interrupted their tete-a-tete. 

It was Harry Clairo, who said:- “You ought to be going the 
other way, to some place of amusement, and not to the hotel, this 
early. What is the matter ? ” 

“Come over to the hotel with us, and we will tell you, and get 
you to give an account of yourself” answered Mrs. Fresco. 

After crossing the street, they were soon comfortably seated in 
the Ladies’ parlor of the St. Charles Hotel. 

“Now, ” said Harry, “tell me where you have been; as you are 
the older, I will, of course, yield precedence. ” 

They related the occasion of their leaving the theatre, and then 
the following conversation took place, - but first, a description of 
the young man is due. 

As before stated, he was eighteen, and like most persons of that 
age, masculine particularly, had a good many faults. He was no 
exception to the rule, but his were mostly conducive of funny 
blunders, all of which were tinctured with such good humor, that 
nobody could be angry with him. Of medium height; a little stout 
and full faced, with a mild ble eye and light hair, - makes up the 
description. 

Most people said he resembled Miss Callie, in features at least. 

“I went out to Spanish Fort with a couple of my friends, and we 
had such a nice time. 

“We did not want to come back at all, but they said it would 
not run away, and that we could visit it again some other time. 

• You know how afraid mother is that I might get with some ordi- 
nary people, and get lost in this dreadfully wicked city ! but I do 
not think it is a bit worse than New York or Philadelphia. 


MOB ILIA. 


it 


“Here, everybody is wicked, and they do not try to hide it; 
there they are just as bad, but more hypocritical. ” 

His two friends could not help from laughing heartily at this, 
especially Clearview. 

“What else have you seen and done, since being in New Or- 
leans ? ” asked he. 

“Oh, many things, during my week’s visit! This morning was 
passed with a pretty young lady, at the Exposition Grounds; and 
I would have had a much better time, if her mother had not been 
so close to her all the time, as if I would bite her! I do despise 
these Frenchy ways, where a girl has to have a chaperon , every- 
where she goes. 

“Now what a nice place Mobile is! I was over there just be- 
fore coming here, and could go out with the young ladies, when- 
ever we pleased, without having to take two every time. The ex- 
pression:- ‘What is home without a mother,’ is very appropriate; 
but I wish sweethearts had no mothers.” 

“Ha, ha, ha, ha! ” laughed Mrs. Fresco, with that sweet, mus- 
ical laugh, characteristic of herself. “Go on, Harry!” she ex- 
claimed, controlling herself. 

“Well,” continued he, “we walked up and down the aisles of 
the Main Building, taking all the circulars that were handed to 
us; drinking tea at the “Heno” stand, buying something at every 
“Jerusalem ” shop - let me tell you something! — I saw several 
fellows, dressed up as Turks, who live in Philadelphia ; for I have 
seen them often on Chestnut Street ! ” 

“Oh, no; they came all the way from the Holy Land!” said 
Clearview, with a humorous smile. 

“I cannot recollect half we saw; for who could, when with such 
a pretty girl ; but after buying a few silk handkerchiefs, made on 
the spot, listening to about one hundred pianos all going at once, 
weighing ourselves, signing our names in the large Visitors’ Book, 
we took lunch at the Restaurant No. 2. 

“I think it was there they gave us the smallest pieces of bread 
ever eaten.” 


12 


MOB ILIA. 


“Where did you go then?” asked Mrs. Fresco. 

“Oh, we walked along the promenade, that leads under those 
beautiful oaks, to the Art Gallery, - so called. ” 

“What were your favorite pictures there?” asked Clearview. 

“I do not know, ” continued Harry. “The ones most striking 
were: — ‘The Cave of Diomed,’ ‘Driving the last Spike, in the 
Union Pacific Rail Road, ’ and the picture of the Christian Martyrs 
being torn by the lions. 

“I was a little fellow in 1876; but I know that this is a mere 
farce, as compared with the; Centennial Exhibit. ” , 

“You are correct, as regards the Art Exhibit; but the Main and 
Government Buildings here have a far more excellent display, ” 
said Mrs. Fresco. 

“We did not visit the Government Building, leaving it for some 
other day; but strolled on to the Horticultural Hall. There was 
nothing there to see, except some apples and tropical trees; so w£ 
came on back, going by the Mexican Building which is not yet 
finished” , 

“Some of the party said they wanted to see John T. Raymond) 
in ‘For Congress!’ Others were going to hear Patti, and being 
quite fatigued we all came home. ' t 

“One of my young friends is at the Hotel Royal, where Patti 
is stopping. Her room is next to the parlor, and he tells me what 
extensive preparations are made for her at every meal. It must 
cost her a good deal to live, judging by what he says. ” 

“The income of these celebrated Opera singers is great; but I 
am afraid their expenses correspond, ” said Clearview. 

1 “You have been speaking about the Exposition, all the time; 
what do you think of the city itself, Harry?” asked Mrs. Fresco. 

“If you mean the people, I must say that I like them very much. 
But there is this trouble: — Nobody can tell who is white, here;- 
for instance, one will meet ladies as dark as Mobilia, and he will be 
Surprised to find out that they are white; then again, people of 
lighter and prettier faces will be called quadroons or octoroons. ” ;j 

N I 


MOB ILIA. 


*3 

“You are not going to be demented on that subject, like George 
W. Cable, I hope,” said Mrs. Fresco. 

“Well, never mind,” said the young man, “I have said more than 
enough, already, and must go to the dining room, before it closes, 
for I am quite hungry. My visit here will be very much enjoyed, I 
am sure, if the chaperon idea does not give me too much trouble,” 
replied Harry, rising and bidding them good-night. 

“The boy is right,” uttered Clearview, to his companion, after 
he had gone. “The word, - bnadatne' covers a multitude of sins 
here, and the Divine saying should be changed a little, to read — 
‘It is not good for 7voman to be alone ! ’ 

“New Orleans should be strictly American, and I do not fancy 
aping customs that say on their face : — our men are all villians. ” 

“I agree with you, somewhat, ” replied Mrs. Fresco, “but think 
you are a little hard on the people here. This is my idea: — Not 
to let girls enter society until they are sufficiently matured, and then 
give them all the privileges of a free and noble hearted people. 

“As I have seen, it is too much the habit of the Southern peo- 
ple, to let their daughters tread the labyrinths of society, when they 
are mere children. This is not the case farther North. ” 

“But changing the subject!” interrupted Clearview. “What is 
this Mobilia that Harry mentioned ? ” 

“Oh!” answered she, “only the nurse of little Alice, his sister.” 

Mrs. Fresco turned her head, while a slight shade passed over 
her face; which his quick eye caught, and it was recorded on the 
memory. 

They were seated very comfortably, warming themselves; for it 
was getting quite cool. All of the guests had either retired, or had 
not yet come in from the entertainments going on in the city. 

“I shall leave you all to-night,” said he, drawing his easy chair 
close to her, and speaking in a low confidential tone. 

She started, and said quickly : — “Why! you are not going back 
North, this soon ? ” 


14 


MOB ILIA. 


“No; I shall have two enemies at Court now, and think it best 
to withdraw for the present,” replied he. 

“What do you mean? ” asked she, looking earnestly at him, “I 
did not know that you had an enemy anywhere. ” 

“Did you see Miss Clairo, to-night, at the Opera?” exclaimed 
he almost in a whisper. 

“No; I guess we must have been seated in front of her,” an- 
swered she. 

“Well, — I shall leave you now!” said he, rising and leaning 
closer to her ear. “Do not retire until she comes in. Observe her 
escort. He is my mortal enemy, and it would not do for us to 
meet just now ! ” 

“Oh! you are not going to do something desperate? ” exclaimed 
she. 

“To prevent it, now, is why I leave you,” replied he. 

“Where are you going?” 

“To the Hotel Royal, and I would ask you not to tell any ot 
the party where I am. ” He kissed her hand and was gone. 

CHAPTER IV. 

— + — 

When Clearview's footstep had died away, Mrs. Fresco walked 
to one of the large mirrors, looked in, and mechanically arranged 
her dress. She then sat down near the fire, gazed into it for a few 
moments intently, then arose quickly and paced the room. 

She was evidently very restless and soon left the parlor. 

Let us follow Clearview. Proceeding straight to his room, the 
articles thrown about were soon gathered up and quickly packed. 
There was a curious expression on his face, and when everything 
was fixed for leaving, he gave a deep sigh, sat down to rest a mo- 
ment, and exclaimed, with hands clenched upon his knees: — “Oh, 
my God! which is it, Callie or Clara? And worst of all, that 
accursed De Balbao!” 

He then hid his face in his hands and continued: — “Poor Mil- 
dred! in ten years, time and circumstances fashion men anew!” 


MOBIL/A. 


1 5 

Nothing more was said, but springing to his feet, he was soon 
at the hotel desk. 

Glancing quickly down the long list, on the Register, his finger 
rested on a name, which read : — Francisco De Balbao. 

“Please give me my bill, and have my baggage brought down 
to a cab at the door, at once ! ” said Clearview to the clerk, taking 
his pocketbook out nervously. 

His bill was paid, and he stepped out ; but did not see a face 
and pair of eyes look earnestly over the rotunda railing above, 
after him. 

“It is after eleven,” said Mrs. Fresco to herself, taking out her 
watch, in her room. 

“They must be there by this time. I will pretend as if my shawl 
were left down there.” 

After locking her door, she proceeded down stairs to the parlor, 
finding a number of ladies and gentlemen ; but the ones she wished 
to see had not yet come in. 

An old lady, met in Philadelphia the winter before, was seated 
near the fire, and they soon engaged in conversation. 

“Oh, it was so funny!” exclaimed Miss Callie Clairo, with a 
pleasant laugh, as she entered, followed by her dark admirer and 
mother. 

She glanced around the large room, especially to a comer where 
a group of her young lady acquaintances were seated, with a slight 
toss of her pretty head, as if to say : — “See what a fine beau I 
have caught!” 

This was permissible,- so thought Mrs. Fresco, for he was in- 
deed handsome. But what an eye he had, and how it glittered ! 

Though his features were about as perfect as a man’s could be, 
there was an expression behind them, which the present close ob- 
server was not certain whether she liked or not. 

Was it because she was prejudiced ? Let us wait and see. 

“Strange to say,” reasoned the observer, “I have seen that face 


1 6 


MOB ILIA. 


before, somewhere. If his thick beard and moustache did not hide 
the lower part of the face, I could get the full expression. ” 

“Have you been to the Theatre?” asked Mrs. Fresco, as Miss 
Callie came up to the fire. 

“We have been to the Opera, and quite a treat it was. Where 
are father, grandpa, Miss Gybe and all? Mrs. Fresco, let me 
introduce my friend, Mr. De Balbao. ” 

They were seated, and the conversation commenced about the 
Exposition, which unfailing topic seemed to be, at that date, the 
“open sesame ” of all social discourse. 

De Balbao was perfectly at home, as they talked, having a little 
foreign accent, but was rather reticent. 

He had an r almost imperceptible motion of the eyes, from the 
corners, which took in every individual in the room, the floor, fur- 
niture, ceiling, and they appeared to drink in the conversation all 
around. 

“What has become of Mr. Clearview, Mrs. Fresco? I have not 
seen him for several days. Has he gone away?” asked Miss Cal- 
lie, as the conversation lulled. 

“He was in 'the parlor to-night, and went out some time ago, H 
answered she. 

The young lady had a little scheme in her head, and continued : -* 
“I thought he must have gone away. If you meet him to-mor^ 
row, please say, I would like to see him. Will you?” 

“With pleasure,” said Mrs. Fresco. 

De Balbao turned- to Miss Callie with an indifferent air, and 
asked: — “Who is this Mr. Clearview? He must be a great beau, 
for I hear iof him so often, at the places of resort and in society. ” 

! “Oh, he is only a man,- a New 1 York lawyer,” replied she, 
with a' coquettish look. Wait until you see him ! ” 

“Mr. Clearview is so nice. He gives the handsomest Germans 
every year; is so kind, gallant and distingue ,- not ordinary like 
some young men- and is a great favorite with the young ladies,” 
chimed in Mrs. Clairo, in her effusive style. _ ' 


MOBIttA . 


n 

t)e Balbao only made this remark, with unchanged counte- 
nance: — “I would like to meet him. J ’ 

“We are all going to devote most of our time to the Govern- 
ment Building, to-morrow, Mr, De Balbao, and I would like to 
have you join us,’’ Said Miss Callie, as Mrs. Fresco and several 
other ladies were about to retire. 

“I cannot be there, in the morning, but would be most happy 
to join you somewhere in the afternoon, if I could know where to 
come, ” replied he. 

“We will go to hear the Mexican Band, in the Main Building, 
where the great Organ is, at three o'clock. Can you come there? ” 
said she. 

“That will just suit me," answered he, and they all bade each 
other good-night. 

When Mrs. Fresco had parted from the other ladies, a smile 
overspread her face, as she said to herself: — “I am so glad he is 
handsome* and loves her! " 

CHAPTER V. 

“Hello, Ciearview!” exclaimed a voice behind that gentleman, 
ds he walked rapidly along St. Charles Street. 

Turning suddenly, his hand was grasped by a young friend from 
Chicago, and he replied: — “Is that you, Bowlder? I thought 
you were a thousand miles away from here ! When did you come 
South? I am real glad to See you!" 

“Oh, I came yesterday, " answered he. “Did you think I could 
resist the temptation to come South, and to see this Mammoth 
display ? " 

They talked a moment, and were about to walk on, when an- 
other young man stepped up in front of them with a smile, hold- 
ing out his hand and Saying:— “Why Ciearview! this is quite a 
treat!" 

The new comer, who was a New Orleans man, was introduced 
to Bowlder, and they walked together. 


i8 


MOBILIA. 


^Askew r ” said Clearview, to his new ' friend, “you. Lad better 
not say anything to Bowlder about the excellence of your city, for 
the people of Chicago think that every other place is but a suburb 
of theirs.” r 

“This is a little to hard, ” replied the Chicago man, “but who 
would think it? — here comes Dunning! ” 

“Why, how .do you do Dunning!” exclaimed Clearview and 
Bowlder. . . : 

“The last time I saw you both, was at Bar Harbor, ” said the 
one addressed, shaking hands. . . 

“Do you recollect the evening we -saw Blaine there, and had 
such a hot debate over the coming election? ” 

The speaker was a Boston man, and a Republican. They all 
stood talking together for some time, until the New Orleans man 
said — “Clearview, I- would like to take you all up to the Boston 
Club. It ought to' be pleasant to a Bostonian, and I am sure there 
are fellows there whom you know. Come!” - 

The kind invitation was . declined, for that day, as they all had 
engagements, and the native bade them good bye, hoping to have 
the opportunity some other timei , 

• It was one o’clock, and the remaining three were debating as to 
the best way for them to meet again, when some one from behind 
touched Clearview on the shoulder, saying:— “Let me See you 3. 
moment!” ‘ 

It was Mr. Clairo Jr., who stepped aside with him, continu- 
ing : — “The ladies are going put to the Government Building,, to- 
day, and told me, if 1 saw you, that they would like to have .you 
go along with them. 

“What has become of you, and why. did you leave our Hotel?” 

He answered: — “A friend of mine, bachelor like myself, wanted 
me to stay with him * which I am doing. ” . . 

“Well, I am glad you are not going home yet. Can you come ’ 
along now ? . They are .over bn Canal Street, .buying some trifles. 
Come?” i;;x ; 


MOM ILIA. 


19 


Mr. Clairo really, liked Clearview, and thought what a nice son- 
in-law he would make; but he had never said anything to any one, 
about his preferences, leaving, as he often expressed himself about 
such matters, the women to attend to their own affairs. 

• They had reached Canal Street, and were about to turn the 
comer, when the whole party was met coming toward them. 

“Where are you going ?” said Mr. Clairo. 

“Oh!” answered Mrs. Clairo; drawing a deep breath, “we got 
so tired waiting for you, it was thought best to go to the hotel, 
where you would likely be. 

“There was such a, crowd of negroes and ordinary people jost- 
ling us all the time, that i£ made me real sick.” 

“Mother, you have quite forgotten to speak to Mr. ClearviCw, 
in your horror of ‘ordinary people’”, said Miss Callie in a low 
tone-, as she stood behind her. But he was very able to take care 
<Jf himself, and. had passed around the others to Mrs. Fresco, 
who took him a. little to*one side, in order to. say something. 

“Did yo\i get my note last — ” Before the sentence was fin- 
ished, there was a perfect stampede of men, women and children, 
around them, and a grand rush to get out of the way of something 
coming. 

A fire engine, the horses, of which had become entirely unman- 
ageably, was right among them, and the animals were rearing and 
plunging in every direction. \ 

; Mrs. Fresco was swept away by the crowd, before he knew it, 
and most of the party were, jammed up against the wall. 

But there was one of them, right near him, on the edge of the 
sidewalk, holding on to a man’s shoulder, who was trying to push 
her off, and it appeared as if the horses, in their next plunge, would 
crush her down beneath their feet. . ; 

„ It was Mobilia. Clearview was not a very robust man, but he 
had a great deal of nervous strength, which serves such persons jn 
emergencies. 

By a powerful- effort, he forced two men. aSlde, passed his. arm 
ajxmt her, and drew hejr. into the crowd just in time;.. for several 


M0B1LIA. 


39 

were badly hurt a moment later; — but if he should live a hundred 
years, a look could not be forgotten, given him from those lust- 
rous dark eyes, the short moment she was in his arms. 

In the confusion, no one noticed this little act, and directly, 
when the engine had passed, they found Mrs. Clairo, Miss Callie, 
Alice and Miss Gybe all huddled together up against the wall, with- 
consternation in their faces. 

“Qh, Mr. Clearview! Where are they all? Where are father, 
Mrs. Fresco and Mobilia ? ” cried out Miss Callie. 

“I suggest,” said he, “that you all take that empty streetcar, 
over there, and wait until the Crowd disperses!” 

They were soon in one of the long line of cars, collected near 
Clay’s Statue. 

Though anxious about Mrs. Fresco and Mr. Clairo, it was con- 
cluded that they were safe; for both were seen very near each 
other, being swept out of harm’s way by the crowd, when the first 
alarm was given, before the engine came up. Mrs. Clairo was 
troubled about them anyhow, and insisted upon going to the hotel, 
where she knew they would be. 

Clearview’s hat had been badly crushed out of shape, and his 
pantaloons soiled. 

Said he: — “I must go to my rooms for a change, and will 
meet you all at the Exposition. Where shall I come, and at what 
time, Miss Callie?” 

“We will be at the Music Hall, on the right hand side, facing 
the organ, somewhere, at three o’clock,” said she, as he bowed 
and stepped out of the car. 

When the party reached the hotel, Mrs. Clairo found a note 
from Mrs. Fresco, which read: — 

“We could not find you in the crowd, and so came back home. 

“Your husband has gone to look for you again, and I will meet 
you all at the appointed place. 

C. F.” 

“Let us leave word for father, that we are all right, and go on 
out to the Exposition. It is two o’clock now, and if we do not 


'MOB ILIA. 


21 


hurry, the music will not be heard. It takes almost an hour to get 
out there,” exclaimed Miss Callie. 

To this they all agreed, and, in a few moments, after having 
arranged their dress, they were met again in Mrs. Clairo’s private 
parlor. 

“Now Mobilia! You and Alice had better not go; for she will 
get so tired,” said Miss Callie, with a petulant glance at the nurse. 

The nurse said nothing, but looked at Mrs. Clairo, and Alice 
began to cry. 

That look of the former had a strange, constrained haughti- 
ness about it, — latent and apparently unconscious. 

“I am afraid you will, dear, ” continued the child’s mother, 
stooping down to' comfort her. 

Miss Gybe, who was generally cross and cynical to children, in- 
terceded this time, and it was concluded that {hey should go, 
much to her sister’s annoyance. 

CHAPTER VI. 

— + — 

“Here- he is, now'” exclaimed Mrs. Clairo, as the party walked 
do#n the center aisle of the Music Hall, in the Main Building, 
looking for seats among the chairs, on the right hand side. 

It was Mr. De Balbao, of whom she spoke, who greeted them, 
and rendered assistance in finding places for all. 

“Have you seen Mrs. Fresco, Mr. Clairo Jr., or Mr. Clearview, 
any where, Mr. De Balbao ? ” asked Miss Gybe of that gentleman. 

“The first two, Miss, I have not, and have not had the pleasure 
of meeting the last, yet,” answered he, as his eyes passed in a 
quick glance from the interlocutor to Miss Callie. 

“They promised to meet us here, u said that young lady, indif- 
ferently. 

The Mexican Band then began to play the National Airs, (en- 
cored heartily after each one) such as, — “Dixey,” “Yankee 
Doodle,” “America,” “Star Spangled Banner,” “Marsellaise 
Hymn,” “Watch on the Rhine,” “Blue Bells of Scotland,” etc. 


22 


MOBILIA . 

“How beautifully they make their Crescendos and Diminuen- 
dos, and what excellant time they keep ! ” exclaimed Miss Callie, 
clapping her pretty hands. 

Even Alice applauded. 

“But did you ever see such a variety of color, among them ? 
There are types of the highest Caucasian, while the shade and 
physiognomy even go down to the. negro. 

“I did not think that the Mexicans were capable of such ex- 
cellence, and if this collection were met at any other place, without 
their instruments, judging from their appearance, I would say that 
they never could make such music or attain to any high art, ” said 
Miss Gybe. 

This remark was made during the intermission, and no one was 
surprised at it; for the lady was noted for being a critic, and she 
had the capability to say very cutting and severe things, when so 
disposed. 

“Here is Papa!” said Alice, as her father came to her side. 

There was no room on the row where the party was sitting, Mr. 
De Balbao occupying the end chair-, next to the middle aisle, and 
Me, Claim took his seat beside Alice just in front of the foreigner. 

•“I am the last of the party, as usual, ” said thS familiar voice of 
Clearview, as he Came up from behind to the side of Alice, -who 
wa.s on the end seat, and carefully passed her and Mr. Claim Jr. 
for a chair. 

.The crowd was pushing up the aisle, almost forcing people into 
the laps of those -sitting down nearest it, on both sides. • 

. Touching Clearview with his left hand, and reaching to De Bal- 
bao with his right, Mr. Claim said, in his best tone: — “Mr. De 
Balbao, let me introduce my friend, Mr. Clearview. ” 

-The. eyes of the two men met, and they both sprang to their feet 
giving vent to exclamations, showing far different feelings. 

-Clearview almost yelled: — “The accursed De Balbao! Vil- 
lain, you shall die this time! ” drawing a pistol and cockirtg it. 

'De Balbao’s was that of surprise and self-protection ; but there 


Mobilia. 


23 


was no' fear in his tone, and he replied: — “John Morton! Come 
on John Morton!” 

Mr. Clairo seized Clearview’s arm and forced him back down 
the aisle, exclaiming: — “Hold, Clearview ! Hold gentlemen! 
You both are my guests and in the presence of ladies ! ” 

The ladies around were screaming, all trying to get out, and 
quite a scene was about to be enacted, when Clearview replaced 
his weapon, whispered a word to Mr. Clairo, seized his hat and 
forced his way to the right hand aisle. 

He passed one, standing by his side,, who gazed at him with a 
look, which could be that of a guardian spirit. 

De Balbao immediately put up his jewel-hilted dirk and took a 
seat as unconcernedly as if nothing had happened. 

“What is the matter?” asked Mrs. Fresco earnestly, of Miss 
Gybe, who was standing out in the aisle. 

“Mr. Clearview and the foreigner have had a difficulty!” whis- 
pered the maiden lady. - • : 

“Too late! too late!” moaned Mrs. Fresco. “Where is he ? 
Was he hurt?” 

“Neither was hurt, for Mr. Clairo parted them, and Clearview 
left,: taking French leave. Why do you say: — “too late !’? 1 You 
could not have done anything with the two men,” said the other. 

“Oh, yes! I could have prevented it. I tried to find you all 
and could not. Where are they all?” continued the married lady. 

“See Mobilia, standing over there? they are just beyond. ” 

When Miss Gybe had finished, the two ladies joined their party, 
and Miss Callie realized how disastrous might have been the re- 
sults of her little scheffie. 

Where he wandered, Clearview did not know; for, in his excite- 
ment no thought was taken as to direction ; but when he came to 
his senses, found himself in one of those quiet spots in the Govern- 
ment. Building, surrounded • almost entirely by exhibits of the' 
Cereals. .... - 

Here; seated on a bench, left to rest the fatigued sightseer, he 


24 MOBILtA . 

began to calm his excited feelings, and collect the thoughts Of the 
present. 

“Oh! this world of trouble ! " were the words of a voice near him, 
and, turning, he saw a part of the body of a grey-headed man, 
seated on a block of wood, just on the other side of an immense 
sheaf of grain. 

“The waves of trouble harmonize, and make the music of sym- 
pathy,” said Clearview, “and I will speak to him.” 

Stepping up to the sheaf, he accosted the old man in these 
words : — 

“Your sigh, sir, has a reecho in my soul. Maybe we can condole 
with each other. Can I come around and sit with you?” 

“Certainly ! ” said he, seeing it 'was a kind face looking down on 
him, and moving an object, that looked like a covered box, from 
the block of wood, to offer a seat. 

“This is a grand display, my young friend, ” exclaimed the old 
man, as he attempted to smooth out his worn garments, “but with 
the millions of money spent and thrown away here, how many of 
the poor and unfortunate could be benefited ! ” 

Clearview took his seat and looked at him, concluding that the 
man must be a philosopher of the f)iogenes School. 

“Do you look at it from your stand point, or that of the world? 
There are always two sides to a question. ” 

“I suppose it must be from my own, and, as my life has been 
one of trouble, a dark shade is apt to be thrown upon the actions 
of all others,” replied the new acquaintance. 

“You should recollect that you are only one among millions, 
who require the attention of the world, and must not expect it to 
single you out in its beneficence, unless you? worth can give value 
received. What have you done for humanity? Society always 
allows its quid pro quo f sooner or later, ” continued Clearview. 

The man looked at him with a sort of searching look, and then 
his dark eyes lit up with a peculiar fire, as he said earnestly, tremb- 
ling all over with excitement; — “Sir, I have labored twenty years, 
depriving myself often the necessaries of life, to fathom a problem 


MOBILIA. 


2 5 


for humanity's sake, and it is at last accomplished ! ” 

“Suffering seems to be the concomitant of all true greatness, my 
friend, and you have undergone, to achieve it, what many others 
have before you; but are you certain that your efforts have not 
amounted to chasing a will-o’ -the-wisp ? This has been the case 
with thousands, ” remarked the young man ; for he began to weigh 
the other as a sort of half demented person. 

“The proof of my assertion is in this box ! ” exclaimed the other, 
striking the covered object with the palm of his hand, and jiastily 
uncovering it. 

“What have you there ? Is it some invention or discovery ? ” 
asked Clearview. 

“Yes, and I will show it to you!” 

He lifted the dark lid on the top, which swung on hinges, and 
told the young man to look in. 

Clearview saw a great number of delicate cords, wires and other 
material, interwoven together, forming an ensemble of wonderful 
and intricate mechanism. 

“I see something,” said he, “but am none the wiser for looking 
at it. What are its values ? ” 

“By this little instrument, ” answered the old man, “the thoughts 
of any one in its presence, when open, will be caught and 
recorded. ” 

Clearview started to his feet, as if thunderstruck, exclaiming: — 
“I do not believe it ! ” 

“Well, you can try it,” continued the other. “Wait a moment 
until no one else is near, so there will not be conflicting thoughts, 
and then, when you put your head over the Mensicap, (that is what 
I call it,) think a sentence and I will immediately tell you your 
thought. 

The lawyer gazed a long time at the old man, in astonishment, 
and had to be interrupted by him, who said: — “Well, will you 
try?” 

“Certainly I will; but wish to tell you that if what you say is 


26 


MOBILIA. 


true, a most remarkable discovery has been made; and you de- 
serve a fortune.” 

The lid of the box was closed for a moment, until no one ap- 
peared to be walking near; then Clearview was bidden to put his 
head over the mechanism and think a sentence. 

“I have done it,” said he, looking up to the old man, who stood 
behind him. 

The inventor closed the top lid and went to the other side, 
letting^down another which made up the lower half of the rear, and 
worked on hinges. After gazing steadily at it a moment, and 
touching something a number of times with his fingers, he then 
said to his companion : — “Come here! are you certain as to the 
sentence you thought ? ” 

Clearview claimed that he was. 

“Then see if that is not it ? ” said he. 

Upon a scroll of paper, which turned, our friend saw written 
plainly, really the exact sentence which he had chosen: — “I win- 
der where that villian, De Balbao is, now ! ” 

He caught the old man by the hand and exclaimed: — “It is 
wonderful! Your fortune is made!” 

A smile overspread the other’s features, as he remarked : — 

“Would you like to try again? ” 

It occured to our young friend that the man might have been a 
witness to the difficulty between himself and De Balbao; so he 
concluded to try the instrument once more. 

The same movements were gone through with, and the thought 
recorded, read, in the sentence: — “I wonder what my partner is 
doing in New York.” 

“What is your name ? and can you explain the workings to me ? ” 
asked Clearview. 

“William Futuria is my name; but I cannot tell you the secrets 
of my invention. 

“However, as you seem to take an interest in me, I will let you 
know some of the first principles upon which it is based. 


MOB ILIA. 


27 


“This appears to be a very wonderful invention, and will create 
a great excitement in the world ; but no more so now than an ex- 
hibition of the telegraph, phonograph, telephone, electric light, and 
other comparatively recent discoveries would have created in the 
last century. 

“Every thought of the human mind has its characteristic effect, 
resulting in motion of some kind, in the body. 

“This motion, even though it be imperceptible, has its charac- 
teristic effects on the air, or atmosphere, surrounding the person, 
and is conveyed by it to my instrument in impressions. 

“Though no one else can do so, by a long course of deep study 
and observation, I can translate these impressions into written lan- 
guage. 

“There are many other secrets in regard to it, which I cannot 
tell.” 

“How remarkable!” said Clearview. “Your first step should 
be to get a patent for it.” 

“If I can get any one to help me, I will go to Washington at 
once; but there is scarcely enough money about me now to get a 
good meal, replied Futuria. 

“I will help you. Come into town with me now, and to-mor- 
row we will make some arrangements.” 

Futuria shouldered his box and followed Clearview to the cars, 
who paid his fare, and after a good ride they stood at the door of 
the Hotel Royal. 

“It is too late now, but to-morrow you shall have a new suit of 
clothes, to make you presentable. Here are a couple of dollars, 
to get something to eat and a night’s lodging. Come here at 
eleven in the morning. Speak to the porters when you come. 

“I will ask them to be on the look out. It is useless for me to 
tell you to take care of that precious box, upon which twenty 
years of your life has been spent. Good-night!” 

When Clearview had said this he shook hands with the old man 
and went in. 

“Any letters?” asked he of the clerk at the desk. 


28 


MOBILIA. 


“There is a note, that came in the middle of last night. It was 
sent up to your room, but you were not there,” answered the 
young man. The note read: — 

“Midnight. 

“I did not retire, as you suggested. Your rival came in with 
Miss Callie. An arrangement has been made for him to meet us 
at three o’clock, to-morrow, where the Mexican Band plays. 

“She enquired about you, and asked me to tell you, she would 
like to see you. 

“I thought best to give this information, which accept from 
“Your friend, 

“C. F.” 

“Bless her! all the trouble of this day might have been averted, 
had I called for my mail in the morning,” were the words he mut- 
tered, going in to dinner. 

CHAPTER VII. 

— * — 

“Mobilia,” said Mrs. Clario, coming from the bedroom into 
the private sitting-room, where Alice was playing beside the nurse, 
on the floor, “I wish you would take this paper down to the par- 
lor, hand it to Miss Callie and tell her there is a notice of mar- 
riage in it, which she would like to see. 

“Go by her room also, and tell her maid that I want her, at 
once ! ” 

Mobilia took the paper and started out of the room, and Alice 
cried: — “I want to go too! ” 

“Well, go then,” said her mother. 

When the door was closed behind her, Mrs. Clairo went to the 
window and exclaimed, with a sigh: — “The child loves her, 
now, better than she does me ! Callie hates her, without know- 
ing who she is ! Harry is getting more and more in love with her 
every day — Oh, what shall we do! All of this is the result of 
sin ! ” 


MOB ILIA. 


2 9 

Mobilia took the child in her arms and started for the main 
staircase. 

“I did want to go with you, Lovey!” said Alice, caressing the 
cheeks of her nurse. 

The latter pressed the little flaxen head down upon her breast 
and kissed its* sweet mouth, while a tear, for some reason, stole 
over the rich colored cheek. 

Miss Callie was sitting among a group of friends, and was quiet- 
ly handed the paper by the nurse, who had entered, leading her 
little sister by the hand. 

“Who is she? ” asked an old lady of her middle aged compan- 
ion, seated on a sofa near by, as Mobilia left the room. 

“She walks like an empress, and yet what a soul there is in her 
eyes ! ” replied the other. 

“She is beautiful. I know Miss Clairo, and am going over to 
ask her name,’' said the first, rising and approaching Miss Callie. 

“Tell me who that lady is, please, who just went out with the 
child. Is she any relation of yours?” 

“Relation!” exclaimed Miss Callie, in an indignant tone, “I 
should say not! Why, she is only a mulatto girl, that my father 
got in the North to nurse Alice!” She supplemented these excla- 
mations with a hard affected, laugh. 

The old lady bit her lips, apologized and returned to her com- 
panion, much to the pity of most of those whom she had just left. 

It was a damp, rainy and sloppy day out; just such an one as 
February can produce in the South. 

“What do you all propose to do?” asked Miss Rosamonde, as 
she stepped to the window and looked out. 

This young lady was a rival belle in society, at home, with Miss 
Callie, and she often had had cause to fear her. 

“Where have you been, since your visit here ? Sit down and 
recount your adventures,” remarked Miss Gybe. 

“Well, I will; but you all must do the same. ” 

They all agreed, and she continued: — “Let me see:— I have 


3 ° 


MOB ILIA. 


been to the Exposition, of course, in all sorts of ways, namely, — 
by Steamboat, at foot of Canal Street; by steam cars, by Prytan- 
nia, Magazine, Coliseum, and every other street line, I believe. 

“Sunday, we went to the French Market, early, before break- 
fast, and it is the dirtiest place I ever saw. How any one can eat 
there is more than we could see; for it looks as if everything, even 
the mixed population, had been thrown together, rolled over each 
other with what they had to sell, and thoroughly mixed. ” 

All the party laughed at this remark. 

“Then we visited, for a short while, the St. Louis Cathedral, 
opposite Jackson Square, and stayed clear through service at 
Christ Church. 

“At night, Dr. Palmer, the great Presbyterian preacher, was 
heard and enjoyed. Now, was that not good work for Sunday ?” 

“Have you seen any of the Cemeteries?” asked one of the 
company. 

“Yes, but wait a minute and let me finish my story,” continued 
Miss Rosamonde. 

“Next day, in the morning, the party went to the Custom 
House, and all took lunch at the Woman’s Exchange, where as 
good a meal as we get here was furnished for about half price. 
I believe it was on Bourbon Street. 

“Some of my friends divided off and took in the United States 
Mint and the Cotton Exchange. 

“They reported that the Exchange is the finest in the country, 
and the ceiling is beautiful. 

“Now about the Cemeteries: — Knowing that New Orleans is 
built on a marsh; that portions of it are below the river, and hear- 
ing remarks to the effect, water can be reached by digging two or 
three feet, I felt a sort of horror in going to the graveyards here 
lest a skeleton should put his head out at me.” 

Part of the listeners laughed, and the others shuddered. 

“But,” continued she, “the others would go, and we found 
the resting places of the dead were vaults, or cells, seven to eight 
feet high. 


MOB ILIA. 


3 * 

“I am convinced, after seeing all this, that we should all be 
burnt up, and Cremation universally adopted. No wonder New 
Orleans has Yellow Fever, or any other disease. 

“To-morrow, if it is a good day, we want to take a trip down 
the Mississippi to the Jetties.” 

“You have not told us what was seen at the Exposition Build- 
ing,” said Miss Callie, as she appeared to want to stop. 

“I will tell you one thing, which afforded more pleasure than 
anything else,” continued Miss Rosamonde, “that was a baby!” 

“A baby!” exclaimed several. “Yes; after wandering all day 
among the unattractive crowd, we came across a quiet place where 
a real young man was seated, and he had the most beautiful baby 
in his arms. 

Several ladies had stopped, were carressing it, and I wanted to 
take it in my arms; but the man seemed afraid to allow me. 

“ ‘Let her take it, Henry,’ said his black haired wife, in a sweet 
voice, and an old lady, who was no doubt the grandmother, 
placed it in my arms. 

“I almost wanted to steal that baby; but had to give it back to 
the young man’s wife, whom he called — Florence. 

“The baby’s name was Florence, too.” 

“How sweet!” said several. 

“Now, Miss Gybe, I have entertained you all enough with my 
adventures; let us hear yours,” and the young lady ceased. 

“It is likely, I cannot tell you anything but what has been seen 
and read of a number of times; however, as it is desired, I will 
try to call to mind those things that served to interest me,” said 
Miss Gybe. 

“The first thing of interest, in the Main Building, was a little 
pony, about the size of a large dog, which was led along past 
the great Lump of Silver, from Mexico, and I thought how nice it 
would be to have such little fellows in Central Park, to draw the 
children, instead of goats; but children are so bad and noisy they 
do not deserve such pretty animals. 


32 


MOB ILIA. 


“Strolling along, an illustration of Cock Robin’s Story, and the 
rendezvous for members of the Chatauqua Literary Society were 
noticed. The great ‘Willimantic’ exhibit, also struck our attention. 

“We saw cloth made, from the raw material, all through its dif- 
ferent processes, thread, thimbles, and silk. 

“Why the United States should want to protect the manufac- 
tures to such a degree, when they have acquired such proficiency, 
I cannot see. 

“Some of the medals and mottoes offered for sale, near there, 
were very pretty. 

“I thought what a beautiful little town Pullman, Illinois must 
be, if the model laid out for exhibition were correct. 

“The display of drugs, wines and whiskies, though I have very 
little use for any of them, must say they were very beautifully ar- 
ranged; and it reminded me of that quotation: — ‘Vice is a mon- 
ster of so frightful a mien,’ etc. 

“I stood some time looking at the United States’ exhibit of the 
Zuni Indians’ region, and saw an illustration in the Fish Hatching 
Car, of what I had often read. 

“Who could ever believe that such large monsters as the Mam- 
moth Elephant, a fac simile of which stands in the gallery over 
the entrance to the Government Building, could ever exist! 

“The Falls of Minnehaha, the Old Cotton Man and Wife, the 
large Balloon, and a thousand other things in the Government 
Building were enjoyed. 

“Oh, girls, you must excuse me from telling any more, for I am 
confused at what I did see.” 

“I have just come too late,” said Mrs. Fresco, having entered 
quietly and now stood with her hand softly on Miss Gybe’s 
shoulder. 

“Sit down, Mrs. Fresco, it is your turn now! We have been 
telling our adventures, while here, to pass away this dreadful day. 
Can you not tell us something new ? ” exclaimed Miss Callie. 

“Oh, no! replied she, “I do not know anything, and if I did, 
would not attempt to entertain after Miss Gybe.” 


MOB ILIA. 


33 


“When do you think of going back to Philadelphia, Miss 
Clairo ? ” asked a young lady. 

“Our movements depend upon grandfather. He got tired of 
so much display, and it did not agree with him here; so he went 
to Jacksonville, Florida, where we shall join him after Mardi Gras, 
before leaving for home,” answered Miss Callie. 

“Did he go over there alone ?” asked another. 

“Oh, no; he took his valet with him.” 

“I will tell you something new, I have heard, Callie!” said Miss 
Rosamonde. 

“I heard last night at the Theatre, which was not believed, 
from one of my gentlemen friends that two of your admirers, Mr. 
Clearview and the Spanish lord, are about to have a duel over you ; 
and further, that they did have a serious difficulty, yesterday, in 
the Exhibition Building. He said the gentlemen are talking about 
it at the Clubs, and the ladies in society ; in fact, it is all over 
town! 

“Is that so ? ” 

It was the intention of that young lady to annoy Miss Callie, for 
she was envious of the attentions of two such fine beaux. Often 
had she tried to ensnare Clearview, and for a while to some effect; 
but her rival had gotten the advantage. 

There was about a dozen sitting about, in the company, and the 
question proved very embarrassing to Miss Callie, who colored 
deeply and could not answer for a moment. 

She would have denied the assertion of having already caused a 
difficulty; but there were two witnesses present; and had to con- 
fess to herself that her little scheme had brought the two men to- 
gether. This was all she could say, in her vexation : — 

“I wish men would not tell such disagreeable stories!” 

“I am sure,” continued Miss Rosamonde, “there would be 
nothing more complimentary to vie , than to have two men fight 
a duel over me; but such things do not often happen in these 
prosaic days. 


34 


MOB ILIA. 


“That is the reason why I prefer Southern men to Northern; 
.because they have so much chivalry, dash and fire about them. 

“Their brethren of the North, when they get into trouble over a 
woman, ensconce themselves under the protecting wing of the 
law, put their heads out between the feathers and make faces at 
each other; but the Southerners settle it among themselves!” 

“A duel was a very frequent occurrence, in the South, before the 
War, ” said an old lady. 

“What war?” asked an innocent looking, rosy cheeked Yankee 
girl. 

The old lady started, and then remembered, a whole generation 
had sprung up since those dreadful days. 

“The War between the States, my child!” was the answer, as 
she looked around sadly to the elder members of the party. 

“This young man told me also, that you and the Spaniard are 
to be married soon ? ” continued Miss Callie’s aggravator, in an 
innocent, inquiring tone. 

“It is true there was a difficulty; but Mr. Clearview was the ag- 
gressor, ” said Miss Gybe, in a slightly cynical tone. 

Mrs. Fresco started to say something, but restrained herself. 

“Of the two, I- would much prefer Mr. Clearview. I think he 
is the most fascinating man I ever saw. ” In saying this Miss 
Rosamonde had an object. 

“I wonder if the rain will hold up enough to let them have the 
display of fire works to-night, out at the Exposition ? ” asked Miss 
Callie of Mrs. Fresco, in order to change the subject. 

The conversation became general, confined to small groups, and 
soon the parlor was almost deserted, for the guests retired to their 
rooms to prepare for lunch. 

CHAPTER VIII. 

— * — 

It was late when Clearview awoke, the morning after his en- 
counter with Futuria, and looking at his watch at the side of the 


MOB ILIA. 


35 

bed, he arose quickly, dressed, and was soon down to the break- 
fast table. 

The Bill of Fare, a la carte , was opened and looked over three 
times, and our friend had not selected anything from the list for 
his breakfast; in fact, he did not see the articles, for the print re- 
solved itself into eyes, forehead, hair, mouth and other features of 
the feminine face. 

But of the three faces, that came and went, one from which a 
pair of deep dark eyes shone, stayed the longest. 

His breakfast must be ordered though, and calling out the ar- 
ticles to the waiter, he relapsed back again into reverie, saying : — 
“How the foundation of my plans for the future has been chan- 
ged!” 

Eleven o’clock came, and Clearview paced the long corridor 
from the dining room to the parlor, waiting for the porter to bring 
word of Futuria’s arrival. 

Great interest had been created by the old man and his inven- 
tion, and his new friend had laid out a plan of action to make use 
of it, in order to realize the profits which it deserved. 

But Futuria was never seen or heard of again, though a New 
York lawyer attempted by advertising and other ways to find him. 

Clearview’s patience was exhausted by one o’clock, and he left 
his hotel with the intention of calling on Mrs. Fresco. 

Luck seemed to be against him, for in answer to his card, the 
clerk at the St. Charles said she was not in, and nothing remained 
for him to do, but what everybody else seemed to be doing,- to 
take the car for the Exposition. 

Strolling listlessly around the Main Building, for once he went a 
long distance without meeting anyone he knew. Yes, there was 
someone, in the Restaurant, behind the large organ. 

It was Mobilia and Alice, taking a light lunch. 

He entered, spoke to them, and took the child’s hand.'' The 
nurse’s dark eyes rose to meet his, and then sank to his feet. 

“I believe I will take a glass of milk and a sandwich; for it is 
about time for me to eat,” said he, sitting down by the side of 


3 $ 


MOBILIA. 


Alice, while these thoughts entered his head like a flash : — “It 
is not wise for me to sit and talk to Mrs. Glairo’s nurse. 

“It is true that those who are not acquainted with us would not 
know; but those who are would put a wrong construction on it. 

“I will appear to talk to the child, though, mostly.” 

Said he: — “Do you like to be here, Mobilia? Is it more 
pleasant to you than being at home?” 

“The world is a study to me, and full of music. Sometimes its 
minor chords permeate everything, and all is sad wherever I am, 
and sometimes the reverse is produced, by its joyful notes; but I 
have no home.” 

He was struck by the softness of her voice and the purity of her 
language. , 

“I want to talk to you, Mobilia; will you do me a favor?” said 
he, seeing they had finished and were about to leave. 

She gave him a quick glance, hesitated, and then said : — “Yes, 
if I can.” 

“You may not know it, but I have taken an interest in you, and 
would like to know something of your life,” continued he. 

“What interest can a man, who occupies the social position that 
you do, take in a person of mine, Mr. Clearview ? ” replied she. 

“Well, I do. Can you trust me?” exclaimed he, in a deep tone, 
looking at her earnestly. 

“Yes,” she said, with a sigh, and looking down. 

“Listen, Mobilia! Will you meet me in the gallery of the Gov- 
ernment Building, where few people go, and where there is little 
likelihood of anyone who knows us witnessing our conversation ? 

“This may be the only chance that I ever will have to talk with 
you.” 

She looked away a moment, in thought, and then answered him 
“I will! When shall it be?” 

“Go to the large elephant, and I will come as soon as my lunch 
is finished.” 

The only answer to this request, as she took the child’s hand, 


MOBILIA . 


37 


was: — “Well,” and her graceful form became lost among the 
exhibits. 

Clearview had not enjoyed a meal for a week, for some reason, 
and little did he relish the food now before him. 

At the appointed place he found them, the only difference in the 
appearance of either being that Alice had a great number of pret- 
ty colored advertisement cards, picked up on the way from the 
hands of exhibitors, and had encumbered her nurse with many 
more. 

There were long stretches of the gallery with few exhibits, and 
a good deal of space entirely unoccupied. 

They soon found a bench in one of these quiet places. 

“You said, Mobilia, that you have no home. How is this? 
Do you not live with Mr. Clairo, in Philadelphia ? ” asked he. 

“I have only lived with him, and nursed Alice about two 
years,” replied she. 

“Where did you live before that, and who were your parents ? ” 
continued he. 

“I lived on Lake Winnipesaukie, far up in New England, but do 
not know who my parents are,” answered she. 

“Do tell me your history, Mobilia! Tell me all you know and 
can recollect!” his voice trembled a little. 

“My earliest recollections were of travelling on the water; then 
everything became associated with my old home, and the only 
parent I ever had, Miss Domaine. 

“This lady was father and mother, brother and sister to me ; for 
she had no relations and neither did I.” Here she ceased for a 
moment and wiped her eyes. 

“How beautifully the little village nestled at the end of the Lake! 
Our cottage, in the suburbs, overhung the water. 

“Many an hour have I spent in my little boat, rowing alone, or 
with Auntie. This is what Miss Domaine taught me to call her. 

“When I was quite small, the neighbors used to come in and ask 
about me; but Auntie would always change the subject, and never 


3 « 


MOBILIA. 


give them any satisfaction ; in fact, though I importuned her in 
later years to tell me who I was, no information could be obtained 
except that I was not a relation of hers. 

“She would not let me play or go to school with the other chil- 
dren, but I was kept at home and given far better instruction than 
could be had at the village school. 

“Auntie avoided the subject of her early life also; but once, 
when I was playing at the end of our garden, though quite small, 
the conversation of two neighbors was heard, on the other side of 
the fence. It was to this effect: — 

“Miss Domaine was the only child of a Pennsylvania gentleman 
of wealth. She wished to marry a man, to whom her father had 
great objections, and being prevented, left home secretly. They 
saw me then and moved out of hearing.” 

CHAPTER IX. 

, — + — 

Mobilia continued: — “Auntie not only taught me the necessary 
housework of a New England girl, but insisted upon giving me the 
accomplishments of a lady. Assiduously she instructed me in 
French, German and Music; being a thorough scholar in all of 
these, and somewhat proficient in Painting. 

“Though we did all of our own housework, she never appeared 
to need any money. 

“Every now and then letters and packages would come to her, 
and I suspected that her means came from that source. 

“There was an old Irishman who staid on the place and took 
care of the cows and barnyard. 

“Auntie, though kind and polite, would not mingle with the 
people in the neighborhood. I was not allowed to skate with the 
boys in the Winter, nor participate in the Summer games of chil- 
dren. 

“In the time of year, when Nature gives its bounty to the 
world, we used to tread the green carpet laid for us to promenade 


MOB ILIA. 


39 


on, and when our work was finished, sit for hours, with book and 
paper, under the shady foliage, hid from the unpleasant stare of 
the King of Day. 

“She was a beautiful conversationalist, and would discourse in 
her quiet way, about the world, dropping from those blessed lips 
the fragrance of information’s full-blown rose, and I understood, 
because the bud-leaves had been inhaled from my study. 

“I used to be very inquisitive for a time, but soon learned to 
know Auntie. When my question was not welcome, she would 
put her kind hand upon my head, or shoulder, and look at me 
quietly. Then I would say no more. 

“The enjoyments of indoor life equalled those of the open air ; 
for, in Winter time, our leisure hours were taken up with music, 
books and painting. 

“We heard no great concerts or operas; but the sunbeams beat 
time, and there was cadence in the wind. 

“There were no great orators, statesmen nor preachers there; but 
the eloquence of Nature started the train of thought, and sounds 
were modulated from the high notes of birds to the masculine 
tones of thunder. 

“We saw no poets; but the waiving grain was our Rythmetic 
verse, the sheaves our stanzas, and the whole fields our poem. 

“No; artists and their works sought not our humble sphere; 
but could we not dip the brushes of our imaginations in the rain- 
bow tints, and create pictures as beautiful as any in the Louvre ? 

“In the day, I used to look from our little porch upward, to see 
the Summer sky draw up its fleecy arms and kiss its hands to me. 

“At night, the stars would dip their diamond fingers in the Lake, 
after the fishes, withdrew them quickly and rush like frightened 
children behind their curtains!” 

Clearview had seen many a fair face and form, but never before, 
thought he, was there a picture of loveliness equal to the woman 
before him. 

Her head was thrown back a little; the face was rosy with ex- 
citement, and the eyes swam in lustre, appearing to absorb the 


40 


MOBILIA . 


beautiful in all nature, and to give it back to the listener. 

She had been looking beyond him, and appeared to see the pic- 
ture described; but now, as her eyes met his, they drooped with 
the head, while it appeared to him as if the voice, in its sweet 
richness, had passed like the zephyr, dying away in the distant 
forest. 

“Oh, Mobilia, how beautiful you are!” exclaimed he, moving 
closer and taking her hand. She gently withdrew it, motioning to 
some one coming. 

“How can Miss Callie and others say that you are a mulatto !” 
continued he. 

Her face immediately took a haughty and indignant look; then 
it faded away into the old quiet expression. 

“I will continue,” said she. “On Sundays, Auntie usually took 
me to service with her, and we occupied a pew to ourselves most 
of the time. 

“One day we were early, and she, for some reason, had to go out. 
I was told to remain, and that she would be back in a few minutes. 

“While absent, two very stylish and well dressed ladies came in 
and took their seats just behind me. 

“They appeared to scrutinize me very closely, and I heard one 
say: — ‘I have noticed her several times, since being here. She 
is entirely out of her latitude, and I reckon must be the daughter 
of some rich Southerner, by a mulatto or quadroon. When are 
you going back to New Orleans?’ 

“These were the words they said, just before Auntie came in and 
interrupted their conversation. 

“When we reached home, I mentioned those remarks, and asked 
her what was meant; of course I did not understand, being only 
about twelve years old. 

“Never will my dearest friend’s expression be forgotten; for she 
exclaimed indignantly : — ^ 

“ ‘Southern Aristocracy! You are no more of a mulatto than 
she is ! My child, there is not a drop of negro blood in your 
veins!’” 


MOB ILIA, 


4 * 

Clearview sprang to his feet, and then sat down again, saying :- 
“Go on, please.” 

She continued “I did not understand the opprobrium at- 
tached to such a condition, then; but now, especially since visit- 
ing this region, how unhappy I would be if there were any foun- 
dation for that thought. 

“Little comfort there would be to the lover of the real, pure and 
beautiful, of a good form and healthy appearance, to view himself 
or herself, knowing that there are the seeds of a loathesome dis- 
ease in the system, which may appear at any time, 

“So I would feel, if among the pure Caucasian particles of my 
blood were mingled the servile, giving a neutralizing, low and 
downward tendency to the intellect, whose infinite upward flights 
have for their pinions the pure concentrated fluid of Japheth.” 

“When did you leave Miss Domaine?” asked Clearview. 

“Well, let me continue,” answered she, “Auntie used to re- 
ceive letters from somebody, frequently. Benjamin, our hired 
man, who was a little deaf, used to bring them from the Post 
Office ; and when read, they were put in an iron box, that Auntie 
kept locked up in a small closet of her room. 

“She always read them alone, and I never saw one; but the box 
was seen several times, at a short distance off. It was marked on 
the end with a large - ‘B. ’ 

“Her custom was to have me retire, at night, first. My room 
was next to hers, and opened into it. 

“Two or three times, when a child, I have waked up in the mid- 
dle of the night, at the low hum of voices in the sitting room ad- 
joining mine, and strange to say, the door in that direction and 
that to Auntie’s room were both locked when I got up to see what 
was the cause. 

“Upon calling out to her, She would answer: — ‘Goto bed, 
dear, I am writing!’ ‘But why do you lock the door?’ I would 
say, and the reply would be: — ‘I cannot tell you now; goto 
bed!’ 

“I loved her, and would obey; but it seemed that the voice of a 
man would soon be heard, talking in a low tone. 


42 


MOBILIA. 


“When my fifteenth birthday had almost come, I noticed that 
Auntie became very sad and dejected,- looking at me in such a 
way that I would put my arms about her neck, kiss her and ask 
her what was the matter. 

“This only would be answered by caresses and a few tears. 

“On one day, she appeared to be particularly so, and when I 
would seem to notice it, would get up and go out for a few mo- 
ments. 

“That night we retired early; but I waked at a noise that had 
been heard several times, in the years past. 

“My mind was greatly excited, for fear that something was go- 
ing wrong with Auntie, so I listened at the keyhole, hearing these 
words in voice of the same man: — 

“ ‘But the understanding was, that you would give her up at 
the age of fifteen ! Have I not paid you well for your services ? ’ 

“Auntie was weeping, and replied in an indignant and tremb- 
ling voice: — ‘Paid me well! It is not for your money, but be- 
cause I wanted something worthy to love, and who would love me. 

“ ‘I was wealthy once, sir, more so than you, if anything, and 
if I had not cared for other things higher than money, would be 
in that condition now ! ’ 

“‘My dear woman!’ said the man, ‘It pains me to see you so 
much distressed. It cannot be helped; but as you seem to be so 
wrapped up in her, we will wait three years longer ! Good-bye ! ’ 

“I heard the door close, and Auntie went back to bed, leaving 
me to pass the rest of the night in wonder; but trusting in my 
dear one, who always did everything well.” 

“Who was the man ? ” said Clearview. 

She continued: — “Little did I know that it was Mr. Clairo 
Sr., then. 

“Three years later, when I was eighteen, he came and took me 
away. 

“I would not go, at first, but Auntie said, she could not keep 
me any longer, and that I must go with Mr. Clairo Sr., who 
would care for me. 


MOB ILIA. 


43 


He treated me very kindly, but always said very little to me. 
When we reached the Fifth Avenue Hotel, in New York, I beg- 
ged him to tell me who I was and let me go back to Auntie. 

At this he would nervously leave the room, and I never have 
spoken to him on the subject since. 

Next day, his son, Mrs. Clairo, Miss Callie, Mr. Harry and this 
blessed child came.” 

She drew Alice to her, and kissed her soft head, who put the 
little arms about her neck, looked up at her and said, pathetical- 
ly : — “What is the matter, Lovey ? ” 

“Go on, and play with your cards, sweetheart,” replied she, and 
continued her story : — 

“Mr. Clairo Sr, told me his son would inform me as to my 
future life, who said that I would have to earn my living. 

“Alice was given to me to take care of, and never will I regret 
it. He allows me fifty dollars a month for my services ; but little 
need of money have I, for every expense is paid, except the 
clothes that I wear. 

All the family treat me very well, but Miss Callie. At first she 
was kind; and it was so for several months, when a change 
was noticed. 

“One day, in Philadelphia, as I entered the sitting room where 
she was writing a letter, and her grandfather reading, to get a 
work box for Mrs. Clairo, I stumbled and almost fell over a cush- 
ion, moved in the way while my back was turned. 

“This shook Miss Callie’s writing, and she exclaimed angrily: — 
<1 wish you would keep out of here ! Mulattos should stay where 
they belong anyhow ! * 

“I was very angry also, at this, and started to retort, when her 
grandfather said with feeling: — ‘Callie, you are unkind! You 
must never call her that again,' for she is not a mulatto! * 

“I would have left them, on several disagreeable occasions like 
this, if it had not been for the love of this sweet child; and then 
what did I know about the great world, and how to battle with 
it,- having been raised in a quiet New England spot. 


44 


MOBILIA. 


“No real want has ever come to me since entering this family, 
but I have been very sad sometimes ; especially when thinking of 
Auntie, and about who I am. 

“Longings have come over me to be in the meadows; to chase 
the little lambs; to pick strawberries, as they lie hid in the grass, 
on the hills; to wander along the rippling brooks, and put my 
hands in their waters again; to see the chipmonks darting over the 
stone walls, and searching the woods for food. Often has been 
the cry : — ‘Oh, sweet scenes, come again ! ’ 

“I have often written to Auntie, but never received any reply. ” 

“But Mobilia, have you never had any suspicion as to who 
you really are?” (he did not say that he did, especially when Mr. 
Clairo Sr.’s kindness was mentioned so often.) 

“They called me Mobilia Domaine; but I have not the slight- 
est idea who I am!” replied she sadly. 

He looked both ways, seeing no one was near, took her hand, 
leaned over close to her and said in a deep tone: — “Mobilia, I 
love you! ” 

“How d’y Mama!” cried Alice, leaning over the railing and 
waiving her little hand. Mobilia sprang up and went to her side. 

“Bring Alice down, Mobilia; I want to show her to the ladies,” 
said the voice of Mrs. Clairo, down below, beneath them. 

Clearview had remained back out of sight, and, taking Alice, his 
companion said with a sigh: — “I must go, now.” 

He walked along by her side a short distance, and whispered : — 
“Will you meet me here again, soon ? ” She replied, without look- 
ing at him: — “Sunday, at three o’clock ! ” 

They descended the long staircase, leaving him to gaze after, 
alone in the distance. 


CHAPTER X. 

* 

“How do you do, Mr. Clearview?” said Mrs. Clairo, with a stiff 
bow, as the young man joined them from another direction. 


MOB ILIA. 


45 . 

Miss Callie appeared not to see him at all, and she turned away 
to talk to Miss Gybe, her gentleman friend, and some other ladies. 

The name of Miss Gybe’s friend was Mr. Sudmit. He was an 
old bachelor of about forty, and a very good looking man ; but 
appeared to be a little timid. 

There was a cold atmosphere about their manners, which did 
not take long for the intuitive nature of the lawyer to fathom. 

He knew the scene enacted with De Balbao was the cause of it 
all ; and, to follow his impulses, he would have retired at once, 
defiantly. 

But our young friend was not the one to acknowledge a defeat 
so quickly. Assuming his usual genial and fascinating air, the la- 
dies, with the exception of Miss Callie, soon admitted him to their 
conversation, which he skilfully swayed. 

The party soon divided, Miss Gybe, her friend, Miss Callie, 
and others going one way, while Mrs. Clairo with the other ladies, 
Mobilia and Alice went another. 

Clearview joined the last named, and assisted them to the cars. 

When Mrs. Clairo and the ladies of her party entered, as many 
gentlemen let them stand a moment, and then reluctantly 
offered their seats ; but when Mobilia, who was left a little behind, 
came in, three men instantly arose near her. 

The lawyer turned away to smile, and it extended through his 
whole being* 

“What is your name? ” asked an old gentleman of Alice, taking 
her hand in his, as she sat in Mobilia’s lap, at his side. 

“Alice,” she said. “Alice what, my little dear?” enquired 
he again. 

“Alice Clairo,” she replied. 

“How that man jumps, and how curiously he stares at Alice!” 
thought Clearview of a large man, who was standing near, just in 
front of Mobilia. 

“Mobilia, let Alice come; here,” said Mrs. Clairo, the distance 
of a few seats off. 


46 


MOB ILIA. 


“That man excites my curiosity; but he must have St.-Vitus’s- 
Dance,” said the lawyer again, to himself. 

The little girl tried with difficulty, to pass several persons, sitting 
and standing, when one of the party said: — “Never mind Mrs. 
Clairo, I can see her another time ! ” 

“I wish that man would quit staring at me so disagreeably!” ut- 
tered the lady next to Mrs. Clairo, and who was talking to our 
young friend. 

Clearview leaned over to the man and said in a low tone : — 
“These ladies find your staring at them very trying. You do not 
want to make yourself disagreeable, do you?” 

“I beg your pardon !- but - I was - well - I will not!” re- 
plied the man in an excited way; then he turned his back to them. 

When the Clairo party got out at the St. Charles Hotel, this 
man did the same, and the lawyer saw him watching them from 
a distance, until they had gone inside, while he rode along. 

“How impudent!” muttered he. 

“How do you do, John Morton!” exclaimed a voice at his 
elbow, as he walked along Royal Street toward the hotel; and, 
turning, the hand of Bowlder was grasped, in astonishment. 

The other saw him color, and the look of surprise that was on 
his face. Said he again: — “Did you not know you have a new 
name ? ” 

“What do you mean ? ” asked Clearview, trying to smile. 

“Well, I mean this, that the Spaniard, whom the ladies call a 
lord, and whom you started to whip, out at the Exposition, has 
been telling it all around that your name, is John Morton, and 
not Clearview; besides other disagreeable things,” answered he. 

A deep frown passed over the face of our friend, who looked at 
the Chicago man a moment, and then said: — “Come down and 
take dinner with me, Bowlder, I want to tell you a little story.” 

The other laughed and replied, putting his hand on the law- 
yer’s shoulder:— “You do not think I believe anything against 
you, especially from that source, do you ? ” 


MOB ILIA. 


47 


“Well, never mind; his slurring remarks deserve attention, and 
I want your company, anyhow." 

“I cannot go this evening," said Bowlder, “for I have to go 
out with a young lady.” 

“Oh, yes! I know the one, and a sweet girl she is. Will you 
come down to-morrow evening, and bring Askew with you?" said 
Clearview. 

The other agreed, and they parted. 

Let us follow Mobilia, when she reached the hotel. 

Mrs. Clairo proceeded to the parlor with the ladies, and she took 
the elevator. What a sweet quiet smile she had, as the child was 
led along the hall. Yes, a true smile, which is the reflection from 
a rejoiced soul. 

Oh, nut brown maiden, no one knows the bliss in that heart ! 

“Come in! said a voice, in answer to her knock at the Sitting 
Room door. It was that of Harry Clairo, and Mobilia hesitated 
to enter; but Mrs. Clairo had told her to wait there, for she would 
be up directly. 

Alice pushed open the door and rushed to her brother, saying : — 
“Oh, brother, we had such a nice time!” 

Harry caressed her a little, and then said to Mobilia, who had 
taken a seat at the other window: — “Where is mother, Mobilia?" 

She told him, Alice being in the other room, and then he ap- 
proached close to her side. 

“Mobilia, do you recollect what I told you one day?" She did 
not answer, but looked out of the window. 

“You know I love you, though it is a great condescension,’* 
whispered he, getting closer to her. 

She arose, faced him calmly, and replied: — “Please go away, 
Mr. Harry, or I shall have to leave. You do not know what you 
are talking about.” 

“Yes I do!” exclaimed he. “I want you to marry me. They 
would not allow the condescension; but come, let us run away 
together! I have a good deal of money that I have saved.” 


48 


MOB ILIA. 


“Let me pass! You know this cannot be!” she said firmly. 

He tried to put his arm about her. 

“Harry! I told you before that I would not permit any famil- 
iarity, and shall go to your father and grandfather, at once ! ” ex- 
claimed she, pushing him back into the room. 

The voice of Mrs. Clairo was heard in the hall, and Mobilia 
forgave the boy, for she knew that he loved her; but the tell-tale 
color in his cheeks caught the eye of the mother. 

“I have just received a letter from grandfather, Harry. 

“He is feeling very badly, and I guess some of us will have to 
go to Jacksonville, very soon.” The young man expressed his 
sorrow and hastily left the room. 

Mobilia was putting Alice to bed, a little later, and what a 
happy little song she sang, to lull her darling to sleep, who soon 
sank into unconsciousness. 

The nurse sat on the side of the bed, and her head fell in pen- 
sive reverie. She thought : — 

“What am I?” No name! no relations! no friends! 

“Yet many of the great, in the kingdom of this world, have risen 
to the heights, from like conditions.” Then gazing upward, she 
uttered : — 

“Oh, God! I do not wish much;- but let me rise in the 
kingdom of love, and sit at the feet of my king ! ” 

Then the dark head was placed on the pillow, by the side of 
the angel-like child, in sweet contrast. Oh, Mobilia! if I could 
lay mine by such an one as yours; feel the warmth of her -cheek; 
the sweetness of her breath; rest my head upon her bosom, and 
experience the embrace of her affection! - then let me die; it were 
too much for this world! 

CHAPTER XI. 

— * — 

Mrs. Fresco was sitting in her room reading some letters, when 
a knock at the door distracted her attention. 


MOB ILIA. 


49 


She found a servant outside, bearing a card which read upon its 
face: — Mr. Alexander Clearview. 

Taking it inside, she gave a deep sigh, as if relieved, saying: — 
“Come at last! ” 

It did not take her long to get down into the parlor, where her 
triend was found waiting in a quiet comer. 

“I am so glad you have come! It seems an age since I have 
seen you! ” said she. 

“It seems a long time to me,” replied Clearview. 

He was then told, (fearing her note, written at midnight, did 
not reach him,) how she had hastened out to the Exposition, in 
order to inform him that De Balbao would be there, 

“You are so kind !” said he, earnestly, “and I do not deserve 
all this trouble.” 

“You have been more than kind to me,” replied she, looking 
away. A number of people, ladies and gentlemen, came in and 
sat not far from them. 

“This man is circulating bad reports about you, and one of them 
is that you are living under an assumed name. 

“Of course I do not believe anything against you, nor would 
ask questions bearing on it; but would like to be in possession of 
material information sufficient to protect my friend when occassion 
might offer.” 

He gave her a glance of admiration, when she said this, in a 
lower tone, 

“Another thing he says, that you were a servant of his, years ago 
in Mexico. All this has been heard principally from the Clairos, 
but also from other sources. 

“They seem to be giving ready ear to these reports, and as the 
family is inclined to lay great stress upon pedigree, though they 
did not have any ancestry of much distinction themselves to boast 
of, these things do not work in your favor. 

“De Balbao seems to be courted by the best families; whether 
for his wealth or not, you know, of course. 


5 ° 


MOBILIA . 


“Within the bounds of politeness, there has been an atmosphere 
of coolness shown to me, from the fact of it being known that I 
am a close friend of yours; and I have found myself left out of 
the inner circle of their confidence, a position always occupied 
heretofore. 

“All of which I am glad of, as it may give an opportunity for 
you to test my friendship.” He gave her another expressive look. 

“Miss Gybe is certainly no friend of yours; for, when occassion 
offers, her side remarks intensify the feeling against you. I under- 
stand what you said about having two enemies at court, now. 

“But why should she not be friendly? I have seen you do her 
a number of favors.” 

Clearview answered : — “An unhappy remark was made by me, 
once, in the presence of some gentlemen, that I know reached 
her ears. 

“Mr. Sudmit, her present beau, solicited from me, a number of 
times, an expression of opinion in regard to Miss Gybe. I am 
generally on my guard; but this time my first thought suddenly 
found vent in the exclamation: — She is a very intellectual 
woman ; knows how to be nice ; but her principal composition is 
tongue , and that is pickled ! ” 

Mrs. Fresco gave a little soft laugh, at this, as if in assent. 

He continued: — “I noticed her bearing was not quite so cor- 
dial after this, and concluded, from her actions since toward me, 
that however much a man may do for a woman, it counts as 
nothing against one deed which would in any way alienate her 
lover from her. 

“How long do you calculate to be here?” 

“My calculations were based upon those of the Clairos, some- 
what, because I came out with them, as you know; but if my 
friendship for Mr. Clearview is going to be a source of ill feeling, 
then the sooner I act independently, the better! ” she said proudly. 

“It gives me pain that you should be inconvenienced in the 
slighest, on my account. 

“In regard to De Balbao’s assertions, I want to tell you a little 


MOB ILIA. 


5 * 

Stbry, to vindicate myself; though your kind treatment of me, gives 
.hopes that I have not depreciated in your eyes!” 

He said this with considerable feeling, and then continued : — 

“It cannot be told, now, far too much time would be consumed, 
and there are so many people near; but at the next opportunity 
you shall hear all.” 

“Mobilia told me, a few moments before you came, that a tele- 
gram had come, saying Mr. Clairo Sr. is quite ill, in Jacksonville. 
His son will go over, as soon as possible to see him,” said Mrs; 
Fresco. 

Clearview expressed sorrow, for the old gentleman had shown 
quite a liking to him. 

“That girl rather interests me, and I cannot understand it. It 
is difficult to make her talk, at first, but servant though she is, her 
conversation is most elegant. 

“I passed the parlor early, yesterday morning, and she was in 
there at the piano, with Alice in her lap, singing softly a sweet 
little song to a like accompaniment.” 

Take care Mrs. Fresco! skilled in society matters though you 
are, a link is being welded unintentionally by you! 

“How does all this seem, in a servant? Couple these things 
with the fact that she has Miss Callie’s hate, (I can see it every 
day,) then why should Mr. Clairo keep her ? for his daughter has 
considerable influence with him.” 

“It does seem strange,” said he, with a thoughtful look. 

“Did you ever think there might be some relationship there?” 
asked she, with a knowing look. 

He appeared more thoughtful, and replied:- 

“Legitimate or illegitimate?” 

“ Either,” said she. 

“Father or son ? ” asked he, 

“Either,” was the reply again. 

Clearview confessed that such thoughts had passed through his 
( mind. She wondered why he looked so very thoughtful, and con- 
tinued:- 


5 2 


MOBILIA. 


“You should have seen her the day of your difficulty with De 
Balbao. When I came up, she was looking in the way you had 
gone, and the pose of that head, and shoulders, I declare, was 
perfectly magnificent!” (Beware Mrs. Fresco!) 

“It was Minerva, herself.” 

Then she exclaimed with an arch look:- “Who ever saw 
such a man as you are! Even the maids are captivated! ” 

This made Clearview laugh, who arose to take leave. He said 
that another call would be made very soon, and they parted; 
but the hands of the two friends remained together a good deal 
longer than was necessary. 

CHAPTER XII. 

— * — 

Alexander Clearview, Esquire, was vexed. It was his habit to 
dine at six o’clock, and he had invited two gentlemen, namely, 
Messrs. Bowlder, of Chicago, and Askew, of New Orleans, to take 
that meal with him; but neither had appeared. 

Now the clock struck eight; his dinner had been taken alone, 
and he was pacing up and down before the hotel desk, wondering 
what to do. 

While thinking deeply, his thoughts were interrupted by the 
delinquent Bowlder, who came up behind, put his hand on the 
lawyer’s shoulder, saying: — “Please forgive me, old fellow, for 
it could not be helped! I could not see Askew until just now, 
and business presented itself suddenly, which required every min- 
ute of my attention, all day. Askew will be here at half past 
eight.” 

Clearview accepted his apology, and said: — “Let us go in 
there, and have something to drink, in the meanwhile. We can 
sit down in this little room, have a nice glass of wine and a tete-a- 
tete, before Askew comes.” 

They entered the room at the end of the office, and took a seat 
at one of the tables, of the many around. 

There was quite a number of gentlemen enjoying themselves, 
and they proceeded to do the same. 


MOB ILIA. 


53 

“I had such a good time last night, at the theatre,” said Bowlder, 
after drinking the health of his companion. 

“Is Miss Rosamonde fond of the play ? ” asked Clearview. 

“Very; so she says,” was the answer. 

“How are you getting on with her?” was the question, again. 

Bowlder blushed a little, and said: — “Well, Clearview, it is 
hard to tell. I expect you have a sort of lien on her yet.” There 
was a sort of quizzical look on his face. 

“I assure you your ideas are entirely groundless. My love for 
her was quite deep, once, several years ago, but it is not so now. 
To me she had great attractions, which were ultimately bedimmed, 
in extracting that fragrance; for my heart would not be ‘trampled 
on, boldly indeed.’ 

“I believe it is the God-given nature of woman, to a certain ex- 
tent, to treat the one, with whom she would be successful, badly; 
and that it is the wisest provision for her success ; but there is a 
limit to all things! 

“A man who is in love with a woman, is willing to put up with 
her caprice, eccentricities and slights, if he is a wise man and has 
seen anything of the world; but, in her repelling him, she must 
weigh well how far to go; because there are obstacles to man, 
that cannot be overcome, to get a woman. 

“For instance, we will suppose a case: — Let us picture a 
man of moderate circumstances, who is in love with a wealthy 
girl. She leads him a difficult chase, which he follows eagerly. 
One of her caprices is to put an ocean between them; little think- 
ing that her lover has not the time and means to follow her. 

“She expects him to come, for a couple of years, and, upon her 
return, finds the proud man, whom she loves , has wedded some 
other girl. 

“This is only an illustration, and it is not meant to infer that 
Miss Rosamonde ever thought an iota of me; but she certainly 
did treat me very badly. 

“I hope, my dear friend, you will fare better, and wish you every 


54 


MOBILIA . 


success in winning a charming woman ! ” Here Clearview reached 
forward and pressed his friends hand heartily. 

At this moment, Bowlder, whose chair was in such a position 
that he faced the door, noticed a well dressed man enter, who 
staggered up to one of the tables and sat down. 

Clearview had not seen the man, but thought it a little strange 
that his friend should move his seat around considerably in front 
of him. 

“Give me - hie - whiskey - hie - straight!” commanded the 
new comer of the waiter, in a loud voice, attracting the attention 
of everybody in the room. 

“It is Henry Fresco!” whispered Bowlder to his companion, 
“but how changed he is. When sober, he knows how to be an 
elegant gentleman; but when drunk, is an imperious devil. 

“You must get out of here, at once, Clearview; for he has sworn 
to kill you, on sight, several times to my knowledge, because you 
helped his wife against him.” 

“It is not according to my code, to run from any man, Bowl- 
der, and an exception shall not be made in this case,” replied the 
lawyer, calmly. 

“But you do not want to get into a row with a drunken man, do 
you? He always goes armed, and is known as a desperate char- 
acter, out West, for he killed two cowboys, several years ago, in a 
fight. 

“I saw him talking to Buffalo Bill, yesterday. 

“Now come! You will have to shoot him or he will shoot 
you ? ” entreated his friend in a low tone. 

“Well, I am fortunate enough to be armed, for another person 
floating around in New Orleans; but as you say, there would be 
no particular desirability in having a row with a drunken man} 
and having created one sensation here, in the last week, it may be 
best to avoid another.” 

“Come!” said Bowlder, as he led his friend out, walking be* 
tween him and the sight of drunken Colonel Henry Fresco. 


MOB ILIA. 


55 


CHAPTER XIII. 

— + — 

Askew was on time, at half past eight, as he said he would be, 
and after some preliminary conversation, they retired to a private 
sitting-room, where they could talk without any interruption. 

“Now boys,” said Clearview, taking a little champagne, “I will 
relate the story, promised : — 

“About thirty years ago there was bom, in the town of Con- 
way, Massachusetts, a person who was named Alexander Clear- 
view. 

“He could lay no claim to distinguished ancestry, though his 
paternal great grandfather was killed in the Revolutionary War. 

“This child was myself, as you know. Up to the age of twelve, 
my father sent me to the free school, and I got the foundation of 
a pretty good education in reading, writing and arithmetic. 

“Then I was taken into his grocery store. It did not suit my 
tastes, at all, to wait on customers, and I was always found read- 
ing, when one entered. 

“Being his only child, father wanted to indulge me; so, accord- 
ing to my wish, I was transferred to a cotton mill near at hand. 

“The general work of the Mill had about been mastered, when 
he died, leaving everything in charge of my uncle, who did not 
like me, and I must say, the feeling was reciprocated. 

“This uncle managed the small estate very well ; but there was 
nothing there for me, until I should become of age. 

“The quiet life of the town did not suit me, and I determined 
to leave it and go to New York; ultimately to Mexico, the untold 
wealth of which had reached my ears. 

“Small savings, amounting to about five hundred dollars, seemed 
verj large to me; but when the Metropolis was reached, every 
cent was carefully spent, seeing how rapidly it would go. This 
was in 1872, and I was seventeen years old. 

“Accounts reached me, in wandering around, that the Mexico 
& Vera Cruz Railroad had just been opened; that a great trade 


M0BIL1A . 


5 * 

had sprung up all along the line, and that good workmen, in every 
branch, were in great demand. 

“To make a long story short, I embarked on a steamer to make 
my fortune in our sister Republic; going straight to the City of 
Mexico itself. 

“I found out that there were a number of Cotton Mills in the 
City and vicinity, and, that being my last employment, determin- 
ed to seek a place in one of those. 

“An American was the manager of one, and he was kind 
enough to give me a position. 

“Being perfectly at home in the business, I worked up rapidly, 
and having the favor of my countryman, got to hold second posi- 
tion, in a year. 

“During this time, the City became pretty well acquainted with, 
and I learned a good deal of the Spanish language. When at leis- 
ure, I used to walk with the people along the Alameda, which is 
a beautiful promenade, laid out very tastefully in wide walks, 
shaded by tall beeches ; also embellished by fountains 'and sum- 
merhouses. 

“Others were resorted to, such as, Paseos de Bucareli and 
Vega; the last of which, on the Canal of that name, has a colossal 
bust erected, of Guatimozin, the last Emperor of the Aztecs. 

“The Plaza de Armas, the principal public square, was another 
of the favorite places, when there was nothing to do. 

“In company of a young American, about my age, whose name 
was Loder, many places of public interest were visited, and many 
hours were passed in listening to the music, given to the people by 
the fine bands. 

“At these places ; at the great Cathedral, Bull-Fights, Theatres 
and fashionable drives, I saw very frequently a young man who 
was quite conspicuous for his looks, dash and display of wealth. 

“Loder told me he was a grandson of a Creole, who had an im- 
mense estate in the Valley of Mexico, thousands of cattle, an army 
of retainers, or mestizos , and owned a great deal of property in 
the City of Mexico, 


MOB ILIA. 


57 


/ 


c ‘He also said the young man was his only heir. 

“This friend was a year younger than myself, an employee of the 
same cotton factory, but he had been in Mexico^ about five years, 
and was very well posted in regard to what was going on. 

“One day, about fifteen months after I had come to the City, 
Mr. Loraine, the manager of the cotton mill, spoke to me 
quietly, saying that a very wealthy man had approached him upon 
the subject of starting a mill on his estate, in the interior, and had 
offered him such a large salary to come and take charge of it, he 
would accept. 

“I was asked to go and be his assistant. Such an increase in 
salary, in my case was also made, that he secured me. Loder fol- 
lowed very soon. 

“This wealthy man was no other than Don Miguel De Balbao, 
grandfather of the great “swell” named a short time ago. 

“Don Miguel was a man of about sixty years old, very hand- 
some, and an elegant gentleman of the Castilian type. 

“His father had fled from Spain during the Boneparte usurpa- 
tion, became very prominent and wealthy under the Viceroys, in 
Mexico, and had died, leaving his son an immense estate, which 
the present incumbent knew well how to take care of. 

“The Creoles and Indians hated the Guachupines (as inhabi- 
tants living in Mexico, but born in Spain, were called) but Don 
Miguel, being a native born, and very kind, was loved by the first 
named, having no trouble in controlling Spaniards, Creoles, Mes- 
tizos and Indians, under his employ. 

“The whole of Mexico is owned by about six thousand families, 
making about fifty thousand people, out of a population of nearly 
ten million. 

“Conspicuous among these large landholders are the Indian 
Caciques, or lords, some of whom are direct descendents of the 
Aztec rulers, and men of great wealth. 

“To the large estates, left by his father, was added another; for 
Don Miguel fell in love with an Indian princess, only daughter 
and child of one of the Caciques, and married her. Both father 


5 & 


MOB ILIA. 


and daughter were dead when I arrived there, and his only heir 
was Francisco. 

“Our mill was soon started, being about one mile from the pal- 
atial residence of the proprietor, who used to come down frequent- 
ly to see how it was operated. 

“Mr. Loraine was a thorough business man, and soon had 
everything in first class order. One, to pass through the factory, 
would scarcely have known it from a New England Cotton mill, 
if it had not been for the variety of races represented at the spin- 
dles; for instance, there were Americans, Germans, Italians, Ne- 
groes and Mexicans ; but he had them very well trained. 

“I was looked upon as assistant to the manager. Sometimes 
when Don Miguel would come over to see us work, he would 
bring his grandson with him. 

“The old man was as kind and courteous, even to the humblest, 
as one could be; but Francisco was proud, haughty, and appeared 
to look at us and everything with a condescending and cynical 
glance of those black eyes. 

“He was inclined to be particularly patronizing to Mr. Loraine 
and myself. 

“The manager and I were free-born Americans, and, though 
poor, we felt and acted as all of such nationality should, that we 
were the equals anyhow of earth’s best, if not superior, whether 
they are occupants of thrones or huts. 

“Mr. Loraine had a small dwelling near the mill, where he lived 
with his motherless daughter, Mildred. 

“She was a beautiful girl, of rosy complexion, light hair, and 
those large gray eyes, ever varying in color, and while her manners 
were vivacious, innocence and sweetness were their synonyms. 

“Loder and I became quite intimate with her, both being 
Americans like herself, and very soon acquaintance led to friend- 
ship, and friendship to love. 

“We used to have many an enjoyable game of cards with the 
father and daughter, at their little home, often interspersed with 
music, from her piano and sweet voice. 


MOB ILIA. 


59 


“There was a generous rivalry between my American friend and 
myself, while the father would appear not to see the frailties of 
youth. 

“I noticed soon, that Francisco’s calls at the mill increased in 
frequency, and while his manner to Mr. Loraine approached res- 
pect, it was to me more haughty. 

“He had seen Mildred, fell in love with her, and became a 
visitor. 

“The girl did not like him from the first, and the courted beau 
of the Mexican metropolis found that a little American girl act- 
ually showed her aversion to him, when her youthful and open 
nature got the better of practiced politeness. 

“The next evening after one of Francisco’s visits, she leaned 
over the small table, where Loder and I had joined her in a game 
of ‘Casino,’ put her pretty head close to ours and said: — 

“‘I am afraid of him,- his eyes are like snakes!’ 

“I had all this time gone by the name of John Morton, and had 
been known by it, ever since entering Mexico. 

“The reason for going under an assumed name was this : that I 
was not of age, and my uncle, who was my guardian, and much 
disliked, might hear of my whereabouts. 

“I expected to work hard, economize, make a competency, re- 
turn to my own country, and assume my true name in a few years; 
for what cared I for Mexico and its mongrel set of inhabitants. 

“It is much better now than it used to be, before President Jua- 
rez separated Church and State, and freed the Republic from 
Priestcraft. 

“Just think of what an enormous power the priests had. He 
took away from them, in appropriating to the Government, $300, 
000,000, which was locked up in useless Church property, vam- 
pire-like absorbed from the people, equal in values to about half 
the landed property in the whole country. 

Under his Reform law, of July 12th, 1859, twenty one Nunner- 
ies and eight Convents were suppressed and converted into school 
houses. 


6o 


MOB ILIA. 


“He made marriage a Civil Contract, abolished Ecclesiastical 
Tribunals and perpetual Monastic Vows. 

“Mexico has made rapid strides since then; but how could it 
compare with our own United States, which it succeeded in imita- 
ting to a laudable degree. 

“Americans do not stand a good chance in the favor of this 
people, when competing with other nationalities, for they have not 
forgotten how badly we thrashed them in the Mexican Waf, and 
what immense territory was taken by us. 

CHAPTER XIV. 

— + — 

“Well, to continue with my story, ” said Clearview: — “Don 
Miguel came to the factory one day, and told Mr. Loraine he 
had to go to Europe. 

“If he needed any money, or necessaries, for carrying on the 
work, Francisco would furnish it. In other words, the young man 
was left in full control of everything. 

“Mr. Loraine made no remarks, but Loder and myself thought 
there would be mischief done in some way, before the old gentle- 
man would return, little dreaming how things would turn out. 

“Francisco, who was four or five years older than myself, as soon 
as his grandfather had gone, began to pay Miss Mildred consid- 
erable attentions, to the great annoyance of herself ^nd her two 
American admirers. 

“We were all in a very peculiar situation, for he was the em- 
ployer of both her father and ourselves; but she was so indepem 
dent in showing the aversion borne him, I was afraid for the per- 
manency of the father’s position. 

“At last, the mischief did come, and I will never forget that 
night. 

“Loder, who slept in the mill with me, had gone up to bed, but 
I walked in the dark outside, thinking deeply of my future pros- 
pects. 

“Suddenly screams, the sound of men’s voices, and tramp of 


MOBILIA. 


6t 


horses feet were heard from the direction of Mr. Loraine’s house. 

“I rushed up stairs, told Loder, seized my pistol and in a few 
moments found myself at the door of my friend. 

“Flames and smoke were coming from the rear, and as I enter- 
ed, groans were heard. It is useless to say my first thoughts were 
of Mildred, and that the house had caught on fire; but no! she 
was not there; and her father lay upon the floor, dying from sev- 
eral deep wounds, evidently made by dirks, while two mestizos were 
dead by his side. 

“Loder and I raised him, and this was what he gasped, before 
the breath left his body: — 

“ ‘Go - rescue - Mil - dred - from Fran - cis - co ! ’ 

“We left him dead, outside, and hurried, pistol in hand, toward 
the residence of Don Miguel. 

“But what could we do, following a mounted party into its 
stronghold of one who had hundreds at his command ? 

“At the gate we were challenged, and not answering, several 
shots were fired at us, in the dark. We returned the fire, but saw 
how useless it was. 

“Who can tell the feelings of Loder and myself, as we retraced 
our steps toward the burning dwelling, where our friend had been 
murdered, and our sweetheart carried off by masked villains. 

“We swore vengeance, - but our cup of bitterness was not yet 
full; for the next day, after Mr. Loraine had been buried, all the 
employees of the mill were discharged by a messenger from Fran- 
cisco De Balbao, and I received secret word from a German, whom 
I had befriended, and who acted as one of the cooks in Don 
Miguel’s household, that Mildred, in her desperation, had jumped 
from a high window, and was killed. 

“Oh, how Loder and I wept together that night! We felt in- 
deed like orphans! 

“It was expected of us that all should leave the premises, and 
even then the mill was in the hands of Francisco’s armed Mestizos; 
but we were allowed to sleep there until arrangements could be 
made for departure. 


62 


MOB ILIA. 


“It was set on fire that night and entirely consumed, no doubt 
with the idea that our poor bones would be resting in the ashes, 
in the morning; and it was circulated that some of the employees 
had fired it, in revenge for being discharged. 

“This is the way Francisco worked. See the situation of the 
case. Nobody except ourselves knew who had killed Mr. Loraine 
and carried off his daughter; we receiving the information from the 
dying man’s lips alone. 

“There were outrages and murders, by individuals and bands, 
going on frequently in that country, and who could tell the ones 
criminal in this act. 

“Besides, the country for miles around belonged to this man’s 
grandfather, and the people were little better than his serfs. No 
one would believe us, if a statement were made, especially when 
coming from Americans. 

“We moved off into the woods, camped out, and matured our 
plans for vengeance ; for no law could reach the villain. 

“The German, before mentioned, found out where we were, and 
Came to us in the night. 

“He told us that Mildred had been very secretly buried, and 
that Francisco would leave that part of the country in about one 
week. 

“The promise was given that he would inform us the day when 
his employer would leave, and route to be taken, if possible. 

“Loder and I had several hundred dollars with us, and we sat 
out for the City of Mexico, for this reason : — I had fifteen hun- 
dred dollars, in Bank, which was the savings of two years’ hard 
work and economy, and my companion had one thousand. 

“Don Miguel gave us a place to sleep, and our food, so there 
was a chance to save a good deal. 

“On our way, we bought two ponies, which soon enabled us to 
reach the city. The money was drawn from the Bank, invested in 
checks on New York, that would be good anywhere, and after 
buying a few necessaries for travelling through a rough country, 
return was made to our bivouac, in the woods, near the estate of 
Don Migueb 


MOB ILIA. 


63 


“It was not long before our German friend came, to tell us that 
Francisco would leave for the City next evening, with a large par- 
ty of his retainers, and that a certain road would be taken. 

“Now for vengeance! and we had it. Selecting a certain spot, 
where the road was dark and narrow, in half an hour obstructions 
were placed across it, in the form of logs and brushwood, to such 
an extent, that no vehicle or horse could pass without stopping. 

“Our positions were taken above this place, Loder being on one 
side of the road and I on the other, just far enough apart to pre- 
vent shooting one another should the object come between. 

“The party soon came along, in single file; for the road was 
narrow, bringing each man in about six feet of us, as he passed. 

“Both of us fired nearly together, at a well known figure in the 
middle of the cavalcade. 

“He fell from his horse, and the mestizos and Indians, seeing 
they were obstructed in front, turned and fled back as fast as their 
animals could carry them, leaving their master to his fate. 

“We emerged from the bushes into the road, and approached 
the prostrate form from different directions, who raised himself on 
one elbow and leveled his weapon at my companion; but I knock- 
ed it up, from behind, before it was discharged. 

“Loder rushed up to him, exclaiming, with a revolver pointed 
at Francisco : - ‘Die, dog of a Mexican! with rape and murder 
« on your soul ! ’ 

“ ‘Stop ! ’ said I, ‘we must away from here, at once ! See, he 
is dying.’ Our enemy fell back and, to all appearance, was dead. 

“We left him in his blood, found our horses, and the next morn- 
ing were many miles away to the north of a spot where so much 
unhappiness had been experienced. 

“After some rough travelling, we reached Texas ; then went on 
to New Orleans, where the train was taken for New York. 

“On the way, my companion was informed of my real name, 
Alexander Clearview, and the reason for going by the name of - 
John Morton. 


6 4 


MOBILIA. 


“A short time after this, an arrangement was made with my un- 
cle, in regard to the property left by my father. 

“He paid me five thousand dollars for the assets, and with that 
money, I went back to New York. 

“Following my natural inclinations, after a time employment 
was obtained in a young lawyer’s office, to do the clerical work. 
He was in bad health and had to quit business soon, but recom- 
mended me to another lawyer, who took me into his employ. 

“I studied hard, and suffice it to say, he is now my present 
partner. 

“Loder went to Louisville, became a physician, and is now there. 

“Both of us thought De Balbao had been killed by one of our 
shots, and imagine my surprise to see him at the theatre, here, 
with a young lady whom I think a great deal of. 

“I immediately wrote to Loder, informing him of the fact, and 
I will read you what he says, in reply.” 

Clearview drew out a letter and read from the concluding part 
“ ‘In regard to what should be done, it is clear to me. I am a 
married man with three bright children. The heat and passions 
of ten years ago have cooled in my memory, and God knows the 
tranquility and happiness of my life should not be disturbed. 

“ ‘I would advise you, my dear friend, to leave De Balbao to 
the hand of Nemesis. If- any action should be taken, let it be en- 
tirely on the defensive; but in all events, count on 
“‘Your friend, 

“ ‘William Loder/ 

“Now gentlemen, I have told the history of my life, and par- 
ticularly that part which relates to Francisco De Balbao! 

“The story is placed in your hands, to use at discretion, and it is 
as true as there is a God above. 

“I shall not run about to contradict or disprove anything he 
says, and may circulate; adopting as my intentions for the future, 
the advice given by my friend, Loder. 

“Throwing aside the injuries of years ago, he has given me 


MOBILIA. 


6S 

enough cause fof resentment, recently, but, bear in mind, my 
friends, should there be any difficulty hereafter, I will not be the 
aggressor! ” 

“I should think,” said Askew, he would be afraid that you 
would tell some of his disgraceful history, in retaliation for the 
stories told about you.” 

“Take this into cosideration,” replied Clearview, “that he is 
in love with a woman, whom he has reason to think I admire, 
and is vindictive from the Spanish blood in his veins. 

“I am in my own country, where any slander, in regard to my- 
self, can hurt and cut deeply ; but it is only a transient place for 
him. Should the disfavor of society, here, be given, he can retire 
to his own country, and be treated just the same as always before. 

“He can deny what I might tell about him, (for no proof could 
be obtained) and people would say anyhow : — ‘All young men 
have their love affairs, and must sow their wild oats,’ while I can- 
not deny that he employed me ten years ago, and my assumed 
name was - John Morton.” 

“That is true,” said Askew. 

“Do you think he knows who shot him!” asked Bowlder. 

“Yes, when I knocked up his arm, and prevented him from 
shooting Loder, before he fell back, both of us must have been rec- 
ognized,” answered Clearview. 

The three friends sat talking late into the night, and, when they 
parted, two more links had been strongly welded into the chain 
of friendship. 

CHAPTER XV. 

— + — 

Clearview was waked next morning by a rap at his door. The 
disturber of late slumbers was the bearer of a note, which read 
thus : — 

“St. Charles Hotel. 

“My dear friend; 

“I would say, do come to me at once, for I am in 
trouble; but maybe it is best for you not to do so. 


66 


MOBILIA. 


“Mobilia sent me the enclosed note, a little while ago, which 
is the cause of my agitation. 

“You know whom she describes, - the man I so much fear, 
Henry Fresco. 

“What shall I do, but call on you, and add another to the list 
of obligations. 

“It is best for you not to come; for if Henry Fresco should 
chance to meet you, there would certainly be a difficulty. 

“If I go back to New York, he will follow, and if I stay here, 
trouble will come, surely. 

“I am leaning on one who has never failed me, I dare not go 
out of my room, for fear of meeting him. 

“Please write! 

“As ever, 

“C. F.” 

The note enclosed read in this way : — 

“Friday. 

“Dear Mrs. Fresco; 

“These few lines are hurriedly written, and 
sent by bell-boy, because it might possibly be of service to you. 

“This morning I chanced to hear in the hall, unnoticed, a con- 
versation between one of the parlor servants and a tall, fine look- 
ing man, with a very long moustache. He said, in a very deep, 
low voice : — ‘Do you know Mrs. Fresco?’ 

“ ‘Think I do, sir!’ was the reply. 

“ ‘Well, keep what I tell you to yourself; do you understand?’ 

“ ‘Yes, sir,’ said the boy. 

“Then the man continued ‘I will be about the office all day, 
and when you see Mrs. Fresco come down to the parlor, find me, 
at once. Do this and I will reward you well ! ’ They went off 
together and I sought Alice. 

“Please pardon me, if I appear to take too much interest in 
your affairs. 

“Mobilia.” 



Tliis last note was put in the vest pocket over his heart, and 
'with the other in hand, he proceeded to the writing room, where 
the following ar^wer was penned, after a good deal of thought: — 

“Hotel Royal 

“My sweet friend; 

“All that I have done, or can do for you, would 
be more than repaid by the pleasure of knowing so charming an 
individual. 

“You are in a predicament, but a way out of it appears to me, 

“The fact of a slight estrangement with the Clairos does not 
help matters. I learned they are going over to Jacksonville, Tues- 
day night at eight o’clock, and this is Friday. 

“As you say, Fresco will conclude when you leave, that he will 
find you in New York; but a plan will leave him in the dark as to 
where my sweet friend is. 

“Pack up your things, if it can be done to-day, and go with me 
over to Mobile. It is only about five hours’ run. I have two 
elegant lady friends there, who will take the very best care of you. 

“Send for the clerk, tell him that there is a gentleman below, 
whom you wish to avoid, and ask him to help you get off without 
notice. 

“I will meet you with a carriage, at Ladies’ Entrance, exactly 
at half past seven o’clock, this evening, which will give ample time 
to buy our tickets and take the eight o’clock train, on Louisville 
& Nashville Railroad. 

“Bundle yourself up pretty well, with a veil on, and if he should 
be on the lookout, it would be impossible to tell who it is. 

“Do not tell the Clairos anything, and the fact that they still 
remain, will make Fresco think you are here yet. 

“According to my judgment this is best, and if you decide to 
go, let me knew immediately. 

“Truly yours, 

“Alexander Clearview.” 

This was quickly sent off, and, in about an hour, he received 
a reply, saying she would do as he suggested. 


68 


MOBILIA. 


It was well that Clearview had engaged seats during the day in 
the “sleeper, ” for so crowded was the train, going North, that 
many had to stand. 

It seemed to be the case on the trains coming in, also. 

When they were in motion, and everything had quieted down, 
Mrs. Fresco asked: — “I wonder what the Clairos will say?” 

“You had better write them something now, and I will mail it 
at the next stopping place, where a down train will take it; there- 
by keeping them from knowing, from Postmark, where you are. 

“Let me see what is best! ” The lawyer took from his satchel 
some paper and postal cards; then pencilled down the following 

“Dear Mrs. Clairo; 

“I am now on the train, going North. Sud- 
den news came which took me off, and as you all were out, did 
not see you. 

“Good company is taking care of me. 

“Sincerely, 

“C. Fresco.” 

“What a good correspondent you are, and how non-commital ! ’> 
said his companion, laughing, as she took a postal and copied it 
verbatim. 

“I shall take you to the Battle House, in Mobile. 

“To-morrow, my lady friends will be visited, and they will take 
charge of you, at once. 

“I will have to return to New Orleans, to-morrow afternoon, 
because there is a little business to be attended to, ” said he. 

The next evening found him back at the Hotel Royal, for an 
engagement, dear to him, had to be met at three o’clock the fol- 
lowing day. 

A great many people, in New Orleans, went to the Exposition 
on Sundays, especially in the afternoon, to hear the music; but 
the attendance was not near so great as during every day. 

This Sunday, Clearview was on his way at twelve o’clock, de- 
termining to take lunch out there, before filling the appointment. 


MOBILIA . 69 

It was quarter to three when he sought the place, where he and 
Mobilia had met last. 

She was not in sight; but there was Alice. How excited he 
was ! She must be near somewhere ! 

These were his quick thoughts, and he concluded she must be 
in that little model room, (outside of which Alice was playing,) a 
number being along the gallery, filled up as advertisements for 
furniture houses. 

Stepping by Alice quickly, who was engrossed in playing with 
her cards, Mobilia was found where expected, with her back to- 
wards him, examining some of the exhibits of the room. 

She turned, and they were in each others arms! 

How their hearts beat against each other! How their lips fed 
together! and how their eyes drank in love! 

Why is it, that from a glance, or even being in the presence of 
each other, two feel their minds and souls are wedded, and it only 
needs the ceremony to complete their union ? 

O wonderful law of affinity and attraction, which works inde- 
pendently of reason and premeditation, how incomprehensible 
thou art! 

Do bear us onward in the circle of thy revolutions to our mates ! 

“Will you marry me, ” asked Clearview, tenderly. 

She did not answer, but put her beautiful head upon his shoul- 
der, and closed her eyes. 

He kissed the warm cheek over and over. 

“Will you, my own true love?” said he. 

“Yes, ” was the low reply. 

They were soon seated outside, and long was it before leaving 
the quiet spot, made more so on account of Sunday. 

Said he, with her hand in his, in conclusion : — 

“Considering that we are to part on Tuesday, the sooner it is 
done, the better. We do not know what complications may be 
unravelled, to your benefit by secresy, but I will claim you before 
the whole world, in a short time, anyhow ! ” 


70 


MOB ILIA. 


Mobilia and Alice got home later than usual that evening. 

It was late at night when Clearview, Askew and Bowlder con- 
cluded their tete-a-tete, at the Club Room, in the following words 

“If you are fully decided upon it, I shall do all I can to aid 
you, but let me warn you again, against the possibility of a tries - 
alliance !” said Askew, in a low tone. 

“That is exactly what I think, too,” added Bowlder, grasping 
the lawyer’s hand. 

“I cannot help it! I cannot help it; my friends, come what 
will ! I am too far gone ! ” exclaimed Clearview, returning the 
pressure and closing his eyes. 

Monday was a bright, clear day, and, in the afternoon, Mobilia 
strolled along the sidewalk leisurely, with Alice. 

Though unassuming, her dress was arranged, to-day, in the 
greatest taste, and in a simple style that set off her peculiar beauty, 
in a wonderful way. 

Suddenly a carriage drove up, with closed curtains, just in front 
of her; the door opened a little, and the face of one whom she 
loved most on earth looked out quickly. 

“Come, dear! we will go and take a ride!” she said to Alice. 

The door closed after them and the driver heard two words, 
from within, as he drove away “Hotel Royal!” 

They were soon at the Ladies’ Entrance of said Hotel; Clearview 
sprang out, and went directly to the elevator, ringing as if alone; 
while Mobilia and Alice sauntered after in a few moments. 

Not a word was said, but Mobilia got out at the same floor, and 
followed after him leisurely, until a certain door, slightly opened, 
was reached, which they entered quickly. 

It was a room that opened into another, by a door between, 
and here Askew, Bowlder and another man were found, the last 
of whom proved to be a minister. 

Mobilia and Clearview took Alice into the next room, talked to 
her a few- moments, gave her candy and set her to work playing 
on the floor, saying they would be back in a few moments. 


MOB ILIA. 17 

When they had gone with Alice, Askew said to the two gentle- 
men: — “She is a beauty, and I do not blame him! ” 

In about fifteen minutes, Alexander Clearview and Mobilia Do- 
maine were declared man and wife, secretly. 

The others quietly took their departure, leaving the two to- 
gether for about an hour; then Mobilia and Alice entered the car- 
riage, drove to another part of town, and leisurely returned to the 
St. Charles Hotel. 


CHAPTER XVI. 

— + — 

There was weeping in the Clairo family, for a telegram had been 
received from Jacksonville, announcing the death of Mr. Clairo, Sr. 

It was sent by his son, now the head of the family, who reques- 
ted the ones in New Orleans to come to him immediately. 

That evening, as the train moved off, Mobilia, who looked out 
of the Pullman Car window, heard a voice, dear to her, in the 
dark below, and a strong hand grasped hers firmly for an instant. 

Mrs. Clairo was almost ill, from hearing of this loss, but there 
was something else which gave her uneasiness, and that was the 
fact of Miss Callie having been looking so badly for several days. 

This young lady now rested her head on the seat cushion, in a 
half reclining position, and appeared to be entirely overcome by 
lassitude, while her mother looked on anxiously. 

Mr. Clairo, Jr. never saw his father again, in his senses, after 
the old gentleman left New Orleans; for upon arriving at his bed- 
side, he was totally unconscious, remaining so until death came. 

The intention was to take the body right along with the whole 
family to the North; but Miss Callie proved to be so ill, physi- 
cians had to be called, who pronounced her trouble as Typhoid 
fever, and that she would have to have immediate attention. 

Mr. Clairo had to go on with the body, leaving his daughter 
in the hands of her mother, Miss Gybe, Mobilia and the Doctors. 

Clearview’s intention had been to remain in New Orleans 
through Mardi Gras, now a few days off, and perhaps to the end 


72 


MOB ILIA. 


of February ; but summons came from his partner, to go to Chi- 
cago, where business must be attended to immediately. 

Besides other things that must be done, before leaving, two 
letters, in particular, should be written ; one of condolence, to the 
Clairo family, (for he really bore them anything but ill will,) and 
another to Mrs. Fresco. This was the conclusion of the last, ad- 
dressed to Mobile. 

“Fresco, finding that you had gone, went North several days 
ago, by the ‘Louisville & Nashville’ route, passing right through 
Mobile. 

“Bowlder says he saw him go off. 

“He is entirely deceived. Telegraph or write me any time, and 
I am 

“Your obedient servant, 

“Alexander Clearview.” 

********** ********* 

The eyes of the Post Office clerk, at the General Delivery win- 
dow in Jacksonville, dilated, as he exclaimed:— “Stand aside, 
gentlemen, and let me wait on the lady, first ! ” 

It was Mobilia, and she said softly:—- “Have you any letters 
for Miss Mabel Juno?” 

“Yes, Miss, here is one. Is that your name?” replied he. 

“That is mine, ” she answered, taking the letter, and leaving, 
while the eyes of all the men followed her. 

It was the first chance she had had to leave the hotel for a week; 
for Miss Callie was a very ill woman, and required the attentions, 
in many ways, of all the family. Pressing the letter to her heart, 
she quickly sought the hotel, waiting and yearning for a moment 
of privacy, to read the words of her husband of a few weeks. 

At last it was opened, and said : — 

“Chicago, March ist, 1885, 

“My darling wife; 

“Oh, how strange, and yet so sweet, to 
write these words for the first time! You know that I would fly 


/ 


J 


73 


to you, if p 
a long an 


nrit power of volition, but 
is keeping me away. 


“The 


vere not for this case, I could not 


come without letting our l xret be known, pains me a great deal; 
but this shall not be long. 

“When I get to New York, means shall be taken immediately 
to find out who you are. 

“Like the bright light of heaven; the color in flowers; the radi- 
ance of the sunset, and the music in all nature point with index 
finger above, so does your fair form, proclivities and characteris- 
tics point to gentle blood, my wife. 

“Listen, dear Mobilia! The death of Mr. Clairo, Sr. should re- 
veal something in regard to your history. 

“Store up all expressions that you hear about yourself, and tell 
me of them ; for when we take information that really belongs to 
us, there is nothing dishonorable. 

“O star, in the crescent of my life! if there is any brightness 
there, it bends its arms to catch and mingle with thy rays. 

“How weary I am, in struggling with the mental giants of the 
country, to-day, and my brain reels when I write. 

“Could your gentle hand be layed upon this brow! Could this 
head rest in your lap, and your bright eyes look down upon me, 
my being would not only be revived half again, but a thousand 


fold. 


“The empty niche is longing for its beautiful statue, and these 
arms yearning for my sweet bride. 

“I kiss the pillow where you should lay, and being very weary, 
say “good-night. 


“Your 


“Alexander Clearview.” 


This letter had lain in the Post Office a number of days, and 
though a little was written immediately, it was near the middle of 
the month before Mobilia could finish hers, in reply. 

This is the way it read; — 


74 


£3th, 1885. 

“Dear husband; 

“Would I could ' y to give 

me appropriate language in talking beloved ! 

“In the rulings of a higher Intelligence, our brief-lighted bliss 
has been curtailed; but my heart, in its throbbings spells your 
name, and sends its impulse to the mind, every thought of which 
is halved of you. 

“That I would be with you, shall I say, when each particle of 
blood, in its onward course, whispers to its neighbor:- ‘Alexander!’ 

“What care I for name, position or birth; for I am a Clear- 
view ! Am I not merged into your life ? and that is the climax 
of my ambition ! 

“Yes, it does matter who I am; for not a hair’s line of tarnish 
must be made on the escutcheon of my dear one, and what bird 
would have its feathers out of harmony with the plumage of its 
mate. 

“Crescent of my life, which surrounds and watches over this 
star, I would huddle closer to thy bosom, and lose my light, blent 
in thine ! 

“Oh, I am so sorrow that you* are working too hard! Will you 
take care of yourself, for the sake of one who longs to be with her 
love, and place her cheek against his fevered brow ? 

“Do arrange matters speedily, and bid me come to your side. 

“According to your wishes, not only every word and sound that 
may bear upon myself, is stored up, but I am afraid the verge of 
inquisitiveness has been passed by me. 

“This morning, when moving the sofa in Mr. Clairo’s room, a 
letter and telegram were found, folded together. I did not know 
what they were, and opened them. These papers must have been 
dropped by Mr. Clairo, before he left. 

“As your name and mine appear, I concluded to send them to 
you, at once, and, if it is wrong, please return; then they shall be 
handed to Mr. Clairo. 

“There must be something in them important! 


MOB ILIA. 


75 


'“Miss Callie is very ill yet. Sometimes her fever is so high that 
it causes delirium. Poor girl ! I have heard her several times, 
when in this state, speak your name, and should be very jealous 
if I were not married, and sure of my husband’s love. 

“The doctors say, if her constitution is strong enough she will 
get well after awhile; but that the fever must last a long time yet. 

“Her father is back again, and spends most of his time by her 
side. Mr. De Balbao has been here for about one week, and 
sends Miss Callie flowers every day. 

“She returns thanks, but hardly notices them. 

“From little things seen, I am under the impression that he fees 
the chambermaid to bring him news of her from the sick room. 

“Alice is my only comfort here, for everybody and everything is 
uncongenial. 

“I see your face all day long and in my dreams. 

“Oh, God hasten the day when my husband will say:- ‘Come 
to me, love ! * is the prayer of 

“Mobilia Clearview.” 

CHAPTER XVII. 

— * — 

Clearview sat in the Palmer House, Chicago, opening his mail. 

One letter in particular struck his attention, after finding there 
was none from Mobilia, and that was addressed in Mrs. Fresco’s 
hand -writing. 

It read thus:^ 

Mobile, Ala., March 15th, 1885. 

“My dear friend; 

“How can I thank you for bringing me here! 
Ever since I arrived, my time has been taken up in quiet, solid 
pleasure. 

“This is one of the instances of my life, where anticipation, has 
not been greater than reality. 

“What was my suprise, the day after you left, to find there was 
a number of people in the Battle House, spending the Winter, 
whom I knew years ago. 


7 6 


MOBILIA. 


“They appeared very much pleased to see me, and were impor- 
tunate, at once, for me to stay there all the season, telling what a 
good time they had had, and would have, away from the snow and 
ice of the North, in this soft and genial climate. 

“Your friends have treated me royally, each one vieing with the 
other in courtesies, and I have now a realizing appreciation of 
Southern hospitality, if never before. 

“This is written from the home of Mrs. L., where two weeks 
must be spent, anyhow, and then I am to stay awhile with 
Mrs. M. 

“To-day the thermometer is 60 ; the air delightful and balmy. 

“We took a drive out Spring Hill Avenue, this morning, which 
extends into the country about six miles, to Spring Hill, where 
there is a pretty village, the location of a Jesuit college. 

“On the way, we passed the home of Mrs. Augusta Evans Wil- 
son, the author of ‘St. Elmo’, ‘Beulah’, and other novels. 

“She is an elegant lady, and entertained us most handsomely 
several days ago. Her hot house has the most beautiful flowers, 
and is noted all over the city. There is a picturesque Convent 
near her residence. 

“The woods and shrubbery are quite green, and I am told that 
on the ninth of April, when the Fireman’s Parade comes off, there 
will be the greatest quantity of natural flowers to decorate the en- 
gines with. 

“A drive has been taken quite a number of times, down the 
beautiful ‘Shell Road,’ which skirts along the edge of Mobile Bay 
for about five miles, passing through groves of large moss-covered 
oaks and magnolias, the freshness of which acts as balm upon the 
eyes, and the soft salt air from the Gulf exhilerates the whole 
frame. 

“We have been visiting on Government Street, often, which is 
overhung and shaded almost its whole length, a distance of about 
two miles, with large oaks and other trees. 

“The houses on this street are of the old ante bellum style, 
mostly, lending great interest to the visitor, but there are very 
many of modern architecture. 


MOB ILIA. 


77 


“The people seem to have such soft, easy manners, no doubt in- 
spired by the climate, and inherited from their French and Span- 
ish ancestors. 

“Though these races were the first representatives here, the En- 
glish element seems to have gained the ascendency, making it far 
different from New Orleans. 

“I should rather live here a hundred fold ; for that city is built 
on a marsh, and now has such surroundings, whereas this one 
possesses a natural soil, with luxuriant forests, and the purest of 
water springing therefrom. 

“One of the most enjoyable experiences has been the pleasure 
of witnessing Mardi Gras. 

“This celebrated f6te has created a good deal of interest in the 
North, and it seems to be entirely associated in the mind with 
New Orleans. 

“Though few know it, Mobile is the originator of this celebra- 
tion in the United States, and its mystic societies were in opera- 
tion long before thought of, anywhere else. 

“Formerly there was a great deal of buffoonery carried on in the 
streets, under mask, during the daytime, like in New Orleans; 
but that is said to have died out to a great extent, on account of 
not being in feeling with the controlling Anglo-Saxon population. 

“A day procession passes along the streets, now, and two at 
night. 

“Those at night, enveloped in beautiful lights, were exquisite, 
and several, who had seen the displays in the Crescent City, said 
Mobile’s are equally as good. 

“Scenes from history, poetry and art are represented by mem- 
bers of the society, borne on wagons, or floats, and when the 
street display is over, those who have tickets quickly seek the 
Theatre, and large Halls, to witness tableaux on the subjects 
represented in the streets. 

“All this I enjoyed like a dream of fairy land. 

“The names of some of the societies are ‘O. O. Ms,’ ‘T. D. Ss, 
‘Cowbellions,’ and ‘Strikers’; the meaning of which I do not un- 
derstand. 


MOB ILIA. 


78 


“There are some fine churches,- Baptist, Methodist and Pres- 
byterian, and an imposing Cathedral, where we have been to ser- 
vice. 

“I have seen the grave of Admiral Semmes, who wasjtnown all 
over the world as being commander of the famous ‘Alabama, ’ and 
visited several other pretty cemeteries. 

“Mobile is historic in stories of the war, and, in riding about the 
pretty suburbs, one is struck at seeing dilapidated mounds of earthy 
which he is told are the old fortifications, built to keep the Feder- 
als out. 

“I am promised a trip, by my kind friends, to Fort Morgan, 
which commands the entrance to the Bay, from the Gulf, and 
where Admiral Farragut had such a heavy Naval battle with the 
Confederate Ram - ‘Tennessee.’ 

“They say I will see Spanish Fort, which was taken after severe 
fighting, by General Canby, who was killed afterwards by the 
Modoc Chief, and the beautiful Eastern Shore, where so many 
people come in the summer time, from several States around. 

“Citronelle, a small village North of here on the Mobile & Ohio 
Railroad, is getting to be a popular resort for people with lung 
troubles; most of whom come from the West. 

“I could write pages in regard to this lovely place, but, right 
now, my hostess \e\\s me to get ready for a literary entertainment 
to come off this evening,- I mean after tea. 

“Speaking of ‘this evening,’ did you ever notice that the South- 
erners mean by that expression, between dinner time and dark. 

“The young people of this city seem to be very musical, and 
there is a good deal of amateur talent here. 

“Their efforts have been directed recently though, to the forma- 
tion of literary societies. 

“I had the pleasure of attending the ‘Chatauqua Literary Circle’ 
and the ‘Augusta Evans Club, ’ both held at private houses. 

“You must have heard of Miss Callie’s illness by this time. 

“I have written to Mrs. Clairo several times, offering my servi- 
ces, but have received no reply. 


MOBILIA. 


79 

“Write me a long letter, telling all the society news that you 
know; if not now, when you reach New York, and do, my dearest 
friend, keep’a^ watch over me. 

“As ever, 

“C. Fresco.” 

The lawyer, going to the desk soon after, received another let- 
ter. How his serious face lit-up! It was from Mobilia, and con- 
tained the letter and telegram signed by Mr. Clairo, Sr. before his 
death, which, when read, caused our young friend so much ex- 
citement that he got up and paced the floor, nervously. 

They were .the ones Mobilia had referred to as being enclosed, 
and the telegram read this way : — 

“Jacksonville, Florida, February 15th, 1885. 
“To Mr. William Clairo, Jr,, 

“St. Charles Hotel, 

“New Orleans, La. 

“I am quite ill. Come right off and bring Clearview. 

“Father.” * 

. The words of the letter were these : — 

“Jacksonville, Florida, February 15th, 1885. 

“My dear son ; 

“I have received another attack to-day of a 
trouble which will likely end my existence. 

“A telegram has been sent, asking you to come right away, and 
to bring Clearview. 

“Staring death in the face, it is right for me to arrange my af- 
fairs beforehand. 

“I cannot die in peace, unless justice is done Mobilia. We must 
not delay this matter any longer. 

“Do come, for I am sure my end is near! 

“Your affectionate father, 

“William Clairo, Sr.” 

This letter was written in a very feeble hand. 


8o 


MOBILIA . 


“God bless my darling bride! these are indeed important!” ex- 
claimed Clearview, kissing his wife’s letter over and over. 

He then continued, talking to himself : — - 

“So the old gentleman wanted me to come, and his son did not 
even mention it.” 

He sat for several minutes, engaged in deep thought, wrote 
a long letter to Mobilia, and then took the next train for New 
York. 


CHAPTER XVIII. 

* 

On the cars flew, with great rapidity, and, as our young friend 
gazed out of the Pullman car window, at the flitting objects, his 
attention was engaged by the animated conversation of two old 
gentlemen in the berth just behind him. 

The first speaker’s name appeared to be Clement, and the other’s 
Wilton; the former a Southerner and the latter from the North. 

Said Mr. Clement : — “What do you think of the state of our 
country now, since Mr. Cleveland has gone in?” 

“Oh,” replied the other, “I am an independent Republican, 
voted for him, and hope to see good results come therefrom. 

“This new phase of politics seems to have settled the bad feel- 
ing between the sections, North and South, and I hope the men 
who have kept the country in constant excitement for the last 
twenty years, will be buried in obscurity forever. 

“Yes, I hope so,” continued Mr. Clement. “The South now 
free from all fear of interference, by the Central Government, at 
Washington, in our local Governments, will be a stronger sup- 
porter of the Union than ever before, and her sons, no longer look- 
ing for encroachments,- whereby their sections were always kept 
in a perpetual broil, will feel safe to engage in the occupations of 
peace. 

“Before the war, when almost every Southern man was rich, or 
comfortably well off, sons and daughters were sent to the finest 
colleges in this country and Europe, to be educated. 


MOB ILIA. 


81 


“When they graduated and came home, there were only several 
outlets for the energies of the men, and they were in the army, in 
politics, or some profession. 

“This is why the South, from the beginning of the country’s his- 
tory, has produced so many distinguished statesmen and soldiers, 
and why our country has been so little developed as to its immedi- 
ate .section. 

“There was no occasion for a finely educated young man, whose 
father owned plantations, with overseers and negroes to cultivate 
the soil, to work or engage in any trade. 

“It was thought to be menial, and only professions were desired. 

“The young ladies, when they came home, found nothing to oc- 
cupy their minds, but becoming queens of society. 

“It is not so now, since slavery has been abolished; for both 
men and women being deprived of their means of support, the 
negro labor, have to occupy the naturally good Anglo-Saxon mind 
and energy in getting their daily bread, which effort must develop 
their country. 

“There will always be a feeling of superiority in our own minds, 
though, over the negro, whatever any other section of the Union 
may think or feel ; for it is God-given. 

“With all the education and other influences brought to bear on 
him, it is impossible to elevate the negro to the plane of the Cau- 
casian; for history demonstrates it in the fact that he has existed 
thousands of years by the side of other nations, always being the 
lowest in the scale of creation and the servant of every other peo- 
ple with whom he came in contact. 

“In a humanitarian view of the case, it was a false idea in turn- 
ing the vast black horde of ignorance into our family of politics, 
and, as a political mo^e, more so ; for, notwithstanding the Re- 
publican party had an accession of power at first , the intellect 
and intelligence of the country, though in some places being in 
the minority, now control it their way, as the stronger mind will 
always sway the weaker. 

“A great deal that is detrimental has been said about the ‘Solid 
South’, and attempts have been made to break it by the politi- 


82 


MOBILIA. 


cians averse to us, (knowing we have an increased representation 
in Congress by means of the negro vote, which we now control,) 
but the Northern people do not seem to understand why the 
South has kept solid. 

“When this occurs, and no sooner, will that state of cohesion 
in politics be broken up there : — 

“Whenever the Southern people no longer fear an interference 
by the General Government, in our local State affairs, as regards 
the negro vote, or any other, then the White Democratic Party 
will split, and the two halves both bid for the negro suffrage. 

“By the election of Mr. Cleveland, this has about come; but I 
am afraid that extreme element, represented by Mr. Blaine, and 
others of his type, has not quite yet done with the ‘bloody shirt*', 
the sight of which knits the Southern Democracy closer together.” 

“What are yours ideas about the other parties ? ” said Mr. Wil- 
ton. 

“I think the Prohibitionists and Greenbackers are perfect sets of 
fools. 

“It is a principle in human nature to want most what is most 
difficult to obtain. 

“Did you ever notice, in the bringing up of boys, that those who 
are closely watched and kept under constraint, when they do get 
free from control, go to great extremes of badness. 

“Men who are fond of liquor are not going to drink any less 
because the law says so. They would often sell their souls for it. 

“We might as well let people have as much as they want, and 
make it free as possible. 

“I am told that there are Asylums for the Inebriate in different 
parts of the country, and their regular prescription is - Whiskey, 
in everything; given to such an extent that the patient soon be- 
gins to loathe it. 

“There is no use to legislate against drinking; for the Congress- 
men and Senators will go from their desks, with speeches on the 
subject scarcely out of their mouths, and refresh themselves, even 
-under the shadow of the Capitol, over a friendly glass. 


MOBILIA. 


83 

“Maine is likely the most strenuous in its advocacy of the Prohi- 
bition law. 

“Listen to a little experience that happened to me last Summer, 
while at Old Orchard Beach, in that State. 

“A friend of mine and I were taking a walk. It being quite 
warm, I made this remark:' — ‘How nice a cool glass of beer 
would taste!’ 

“The words were scarecely uttered, when a man standing near 
tapped me on the shoulder and bade me follow him. 

“We went around to the rear of the house, and entered what 
would be taken for a parlor. He asked us to be seated, went to 
the side of the wall, took out a key, unlocked and slid back a 
panel, when all that we could call for was produced. 

“Anything that was wanted could be gotten at Bar Harbor, al- 
so, the law to the contrary notwithstanding. 

“I was very much amused at a scene in one of the New York 
hotels, not long ago. It was on Sunday, and the law is for sa- 
loons and bar-rooms to be closed. 

“From one end of the hotel bar to the other was stretched a 
white cloth, bearing a placard in the middle, which said : — ‘Bar 
closed to-day ! ’ but the forms of half a dozen men could be seen 
behind it, and the clinking of glasses was heard. 

“There are three things that ruin the youth of all countries, and 
they are - Wine, Lewd women and Gambling. 

“These have always existed, and always will; no remedy being 
•found to check their power but one, and that is - Religion. 

“The ‘Balm in Gilead’ seems not only to heal the deseased and 
wounded parts, but to cool, calm and soothe the healthy restless 
impulses of the spirit, in its tendencies for evil.” 

“I think Legislation can lessen the evil somewhat; but never 
,mind, let me hear why you consider the Greenbackers such fools, ” 
; said Mr. Wilton. 

“Well, ” replied his companion, “everybody is a fool who does 
■jiot know what he is talking about and persists in his ignorance* 


8 4 


MOBILIA. 


“What do the ones who are agitating this subject know about 
Finance ? This is the trouble with our voters and legislators, - 
they adopt a theory and attempt to carry it out, without ever hav- 
ing had any experience on the subject, or its practical workings. 

“I would give more for the opinion of one good New York 
Banker, on the subject of Finance, than all the Congressmen and 
Senators combined! 

“The Greenbackers want to flood the country with paper notes, 
without having true money, - Gold or Silver, back of it. 

“Suppose a man in the community owes a large amount of 
money, and this is known to every one. 

“People know that he cannot pay it, for a long time at least. 
If for new transactions, his notes are offered, they will be taken at 
a heavy discount, should any body be willing to touch them at 
all. 

“So with our Government. It owes about $1,500,000,000, which 
will take years to pay, and yet these Greenbacker fools want to 
issue new notes and force them on the community of this country 
and the world, to be at a discount in the future. 

“The National Bank System is the best and safest that can be 
devised, for giving us a safe currency, at present; but this would 
be my plan: — to pay off the National Debt as soon as possible, 
for Nations have no right to be always under heavy debt, any 
more than individuals, - and then , not until, issue notes, every 
dollar of which to have a coin dollar, in Gold or Silver, in the 
United States Treasury, subject to demand. These Gold and 
Silver dollars should be equal, according to the market of the 
world. 

“There comes up the Silver question, which is agitating our 
people. 

“Our fathers at Washington are trying, by putting a Govern- 
ment stamp on a coin dollar, containing only 80 cents worth of silver, 
to make its citizens believe it is equal in value to a Gold dollar, 
which would bring 100 cents in the markets of the world. 

“They might as well impress the figure of an American eagle 


MOBILIA. 


85 


on a cobble stone, and attempt to make the nations believe that 
it is as good as Gold ; the fact being only that one contains more 
silver than the other. 

“Statistics say there were about $30,000,000, in Gold, and 
$48,000,000, Silver, produced in the United States for the year 
1884. 

“Divide the whole amount of these metals up into fractions, say 
grains, and there will be several particles of Silver to one of Gold. 

“If no other coin were in the world, this would be the exact 
proportionate value; but every other country having its stock, 
and producing more all the time, the amount of Silver we ought 
to put in our dollar should be what a»Gold dollar will purchase 
of the bright coin, on an average, in the market of the world.” 

“You do not make any allowance for these metals being put to 
other uses besides money, ” added Mr. Wilton. 

“Yes, that should be considered, also,” acknowledged his friend. 

“There is very little difference between the platforms of the two 
great parties, on the various subjects brought up to the public 
mind, at present, the prominent conservative men of each thinking 
about the same. 

“Tariff and Free Trade resolve themselves down to this, with 
the clear headed man, that we should put just enough duties on 
imports to protect our industries from foreign competition, without 
making large margins of profit for the monopolists in this country, 
which profits come out of the people at large. 

“Where there are many workmen to do a job, labor is cheap 
and money is dear, and where there are few, money is cheap and 
labor is dear. 

“We cannot compete with Europe, in many things, for there 
are so many more people there,- her teeming millions enabling 
cheap labor to undersell us; so away with the idea of entire Free 
Trade, until our labor becomes as cheap as theirs.” 

“What do you think are the problems that threaten our people 
most, in the future? ” asked the Northern man. 

Mr. Clement replied : — “The encroachments of monopolists^ 


86 


MOB ILIA. 


Railroads and other rich corporations, which manipulate the votes 
of the lower classes and even control legislatures. 

“Then there is a religious question that I can see looming up 
in the future, though it pains me that there should be such a con- 
sideration brought into the politics of a country which was founded 
with the idea of separating all such thoughts or associations from 
its Government.” 

CHAPTER XIX. 

— * — 

“I believe in that saying:- ‘That all men are bom free and 
equal,’ ” continued Mr. Clement. 

“This applies to the babe and ten year old child, as much as 
the grown man, but does not infer that they should vote or take 
part in governing our country. 

“The negro, in the South, and the low Foreign element of the 
North, are mere babes in the political family, and should not be 
allowed to take part in its government. 

“There are thousands of grown negroes in the South, who cannot 
tell who is President of the United States, and a half grown 
American boy knows much more about our institutions than a 
majority of the middle aged Foreign element. 

“Irishmen and Germans, who are the scum of the population at 
home, however ignorant and illiterate, in an incredible short time 
are placed on an equality with the best of any community in 
this country. 

“There are less bad results to be anticipated from a manipulation 
of the ignorant negro vote; because they are most all Protestants, - 
Methodists or Baptists, upon the principles of which ojur Govern- 
ment and Institutions are founded, and the controllers are Anglo- 
Saxons, principally, of the same faith. 

“But the low Foreign element, of the North, which elects the 
Judges, Congressmen, Statesmen, and I may say even Presidents, 
are Roman Catholics, nothing but vassals of the Pope of Rome. 

Bishop Ireland preached, under date of November 16th, 1885, 


MOB ILIA, 87 

at St. Martins Church, Baltimore, advocating the Union of 
Church and State. 

“Few people know what an immense power and influence this 
scum of the earth vote has upon the destinies of this country. 

“A soldier of ordinarily well-trained mind, and at the head of one 
thousand well-trained num-skulls, can trash twenty Shakespeares, 
physically. 

“The priests rule the leaders of Tammany, Tammany rules New 
York City, New York City rules the State, and the State most al- 
ways carries the Presidency. 

“So it is with other parts of the Government, and what position 
does the great Protestant Anglo-Saxon element occupy ? 

“Oh, yes, when they are put down, they cannot be kept there; 
but the easiest way is the best, namely, . cut the root of the evil. 

“All power in this country comes from the elective franchise. 
In my opinion there should be a standard of education, or intelli- 
gence, adopted for voters,- not a property qualification like the 
British plan. Aesop, Homer and Socrtaes, whose precepts have 
permeated the social and political intricacies of the ages, were 
penniless. 

“This would not be a reflection on the negro, particularly, but 
would apply to the Irish, Chinese, or any other class of citizens. 

“Then the law should be, in regard to immigrants, that every 
foreigner entering this country shall live here twenty-one years, 
(the length of time it takes for our Anglo-Saxon children to be- 
come grown, politically,) and then be allowed to vote. 

“This country was founded by our fathers for their American 
children, and not to be turned over to Foreigners, who are ‘aginst 
the Gouverment, as soon as they touch our. soil. 

“And what are we going to do about ‘strikes ! ’ 

“The order of things seemeto be changed, and instead of Caesar 
swaying Rome, it is just the opposite. 

“But I would much prefer to be under the control of a few 
wealthy men, who have intellect and discretion, than subject to 
that of the lower classes, bearing the name of “Labor Unions,” 


88 


MOB ILIA. 


which are little less than mobs. 

“Better have Louis than the French Guillotine! 

“I disagree with you, in your ideas regarding the Roman Cath- 
olics and their intentions. They have some admirable institutions, 
and you cannot deny that they are the conservators of society, in 
one instance at least, and that is the sacredness with with they 
hold the marriage tie. Upon this foundation the whole social 
system rests, and if it is in any way affected, the whole super- 
structure will come down. 

“You are the representative of a large class, but do not be so 
extreme in your views ; for a great deal of harm will be accom- 
plished by adopting ultra ideas, even as much so as those whom 
you are attacking ! ” Mr. Wilton said this rather emphatically. 

“I admire them for that, and acknowledge there is a great deal 
of good among them, ” continued Mr. Clement. 

“If the Republicans of the North, who represent the intelli- 
gence, wealth and back-bone of that section, and the Democ- 
racy of the South, occupying the same position there, would 
unite in action, according to my views, there will be no more 
trouble in regard to the negro population, in politics, nor with the 
low Foreign element of the higher latitude. 

“Then the leader of Tammany /will no longer manipulate his 
myrmidons in New York City; for according to the Constitu- 
tion, as it should be, thousands could not vote, and the City would 
be controlled by those Giant intellects of trade, who have so little 
to say in its Government now.” 

Here Mr. Wilton asked : — “What do you flunk about our 
next Presidential Election?” 

“I think,” replied the other, “ if Mr. Cleveland continues his 
present plan of reform in the Civil Service, and other ways, he 
will be elected again by the good men of both parties, though 
there may be a great many discontented Democrats and Repub- 
licans.” 

Clearview’s berth was made up now, and in a short while he fell 
asleep, dreaming that a lovely form was in his arms. 


MOB ILIA. 


89 

CHAPTER XX. 

— + — 

It was the first week in April, and Miss Callie had just gotten 
out of bed. She was a mere shadow and had to be rolled around 
in a chair, not being able to walk at all. 

The doctor said a change would do her good, but advised that 
she should not be taken home, at once, for it would be better to 
make a gradual change of climate. 

Mr. Clairo decided to go to Atlanta, and stay there until his 
daughter were quite strong again. 

The middle of the month was reached before they were found 
in that city, at the Kimball House. 

Spring had arrived in full verdure, and her new dress, for the 
coming year, looked very beautiful. 

The air was balmy and redolent with flowers, and the Mocking 
Birds proved to be a well-spring of melody to the Northern ear. 

They took the convalescent out into the fresh atmosphere when- 
ever the day was fine, as often as possible, giving her short trips 
to the places of interest near by, and pretty drives into the sub- 
urbs. 

Mobilia was sad during these days. Not knowing the rules of 
the Post Office, in regard to sending letters, she had not requested 
the clerk at Jacksonville to forward hers; hence, no news from her 
husband had been received for a long time. 

She wrote to him in Chicago, but the Hotel clerk, like many of 
the kind do, instead of forwarding Clearview’s letters to New York, 
as requested, simply placed them in the bundle of letters to be 
called for, marked “C.” 

So lonesome did she feel sometimes that the tears would fall 
from those bright eyes, and Alice, seeing them, would get up into 
her lap, saying:-— “I love you.” 

Clearview was quite as anxious to hear from his wife, but he 
had to travel backwards and forwards between Chicago and New 
York, several times in the last month. 


9 ° 


MOBILIA. 


That, in conjunction with having to attend to other business, 
which was postponed during his recreation in the South, had en- 
tirely undone his correspondence. 

He would have gladly thrown up the whole business, to see his 
wife, but others were interested besides himself. Professional 
pride and the protection of his clients had to be considered, and 
then his marriage was a secret, having not been revealed even to 
his partner. 

Mobilia at last concluded to write to him in New York, care of 
Dizzume & Clearview, Attorneys, giving information where she 
was. 

She also said that it was the intention of the Clairos to remain 
there until the warm weather came on, and then to seek the moun- 
tains of North Carolina. 

Her letter also told him De Balbao had been there, once, and 
had taken Miss Callie out to drive several times. 

Rejoiced was Clearview to hear from her, and he determined to 
go down to Atlanta as soon as arrangements could be made; but 
this did not happen; for, hearing some other news, and that Mr. 
Clairo was coming North, he determined to stay where he was. 

Mobilia used to take Alice in the afternoon frequently, get on 
the Peach Tree Street cars and ride out to Ponce de Leon Spring, 
which is situated in a pretty grove of trees at the end of the city, 
and quite a resort for children. 

Going to the Post Office one day, on the way, she was greatly 
rejoiced to receive a letter, addressed as before: — “Miss Mabel 
Juno.” 

It was full of passionate love, and regrets at not hearing from 
her for so long a time; also of reasons why her letters had not 
reached him, and why he did not come to be near her. 

This is the way it concluded : — 

“Now, my own love, I have some news that will rejoice your 
heart, as it does mine, for your sake. 

“My detectives have been at work, for months, and have at last 
been able to get hold of the iron box belonging to Miss Domaine, 


MOB ILIA. 


9 1 


marked ‘ B, * in which she kept the letters, received from Mr. Clairo, 
Sr. for years. 

“It is locked up safely ; I have read all the letters, and the poor 
lady is in ignorance yet of her loss. 

“Beautiful sweetheart and wife, I can now inform you that your 
maiden name was not Mobilia Domaine , - but Mobilia Lane! 

“You are a child of one of the oldest, wealthiest and most aris- 
tocratic families of the South. 

“Your father was formerly from Mobile, Alabama, had you 
named after that city, and you are the peer of the highest in this 
Or any other country. 

“I will be with you as soon as arrangements can be made, when 
everything shall be explained. 

“Good-bye, my bride. 

“Your proud 

“Alexander.” 

She sat on the bed, in Alice’s room, reading this letter, and when 
it was finished, no great demonstrations were made, but she laid 
back softly on the pillow, pressed the letter to her heart and closed 
her eyes, while a smile of sweet ecstacy overspread the lovely 
features. 

Long she reclined in a trance of delight, with only one motion 
perceptible, and that was the rise and fall of her gentle bosom, in- 
dicative of the calm peace and joy below. 

CHAPTER XXI. 

— * — 

May had almost gone, and Clearview had not made his appear- 
ance in Atlanta yet. 

Mobilia was contented though, for she had received frequent 
letters from her husband. 

It was a bright afternoon on the thirtieth day of the month, 
when she and Alice alighted from the car at the terminus, in the 
grove near Ponce de Leon Spring. 


9 2 


MOBILIA. 


“What a beautiful child! ” exclaimed a young lady, in a car- 
riage driving by, with her father and mother. 

It was Miss Sallie Grant, one of the prettiest. girls in Atlanta. 

“And what a lovely woman ! ” said the mother, turning to look 
at them as they took their seats on a bench in the grove. 

Alice began to talk to some of the children, who were swinging 
near by, and a fine looking man approached to a respectful dis- 
tance of Mobilia. In a hesitating manner, he took off his hat and 
said to her: — “I hope you will not take me to be too inquisi- 
tive in asking if your name is not Mobilia?” 

She thought the face had been seen before, but did not know 
whether to allow a stranger to engage her in conversation or not. 

He appeared to be so respectful and polite though, that she let 
him speak to her, and soon found out it was the man who had 
looked at them so hard, in the street car at New Orleans. 

It was almost dark before they quitted their conversation and 
left that bench; then the three rode into the city, on the cars to- 
gether. 


CHAPTER XXII. 

+ 

Several letters had been received by Clearview from Mrs. Fres- 
co, stating' she had had such a pleasant time in Mobile that it 
seemed almost impossible to get away; but now her day of depart- 
ure was fixed positively for the first of June. 

According to her intentions, she was now in New York getting 
some dresses made, and otherwise making preparations to spend 
the Summer at Greenbrier White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia, 
which celebrated resort she had never visited. 

Her good lawyer friend had informed her before she quitted the 
South, that Henry Fresco was no longer in New York, but had 
returned to the far West. 

Clearview had called to see her and was told she would go to 
“White Sulphur”, though a little early, on first of July. 

How he longed to see Mobilia! but it would not be right to 


MOB ILIA. 


93 


leave his aged partner the heavy burdens to carry ; and then he 
had no excuse to go, unless the secret were revealed. 

This could not' be done, for Mr. Dizzurne was one of those 
strict, proud aristocrats, who nevdf tolerated anything but that 
would bear the on dit of his set in society. 

Mobilia had written, in her last letter, that Miss Calie would 
visit the “White Sulphur,” after staying at Ashville, North Caro- 
lina, awhile, in company with Miss Gybe and a chaperon; leav- 
ing Mrs. Clairo, herself and Alice, to come later on. 

“So he concluded to wait until that time, get leave of absence 
then, meet them at the Springs, and take Mobilia right away. 

They should be married after that, in public, as soon as possible. 
There was some other business though to attend to, right off. 

***##**##* ********* 

Mr. Clairo had come North, fringing Harry only with him. 

He was reading the news in his palatial residence, quietlly, Sat- 
urday morning, when a servant interrupted him by handing a 
telegram, and a book to sign. 

It read : — 

“New York, June 20th, 1885. 

“To William Clairo, 

Philadelphia. 

“Could you be kind enough to 

meet me at Hotel Lafayette, this evening after tea? Answer. 

“Alexander Clearview.” 

“What can he want?” muttered the millionaire. It is in re- 
gard to my daughter, of course. Well, I could not wish for a bet- 
ter man for her. 

“He and Callie must have made up. She loves him, I know.” 
This is the reply he sent: — 

“Philadelphia, June 20th, 1885. 

“To Alexander Clearview, 

Care of Dizzurne & Clearview, 

New York. 

“I will meet you with pleasure. 

“William Clairo.” 


94 


MOB ILIA. 


When Clearview shook hands with him that evening in the 
Hotel, the greeting of the elder man was so cordial, and the face 
so beaming, that the heart of the young lawyer almost failed him. 

But he had a duty to perform, and was prepared to meet it* 
both mentally and physically. 

They were seated in private for some time, talking pleasantly on 
general topics, before our young friend could approach the subject 
of his visit; which he did, at last, by taking out some papers from 
his pocket and selecting one from them. 

Mr. Clairo began to look puzzled, and, when Clearview handed 
him a telegram, coupled with the following question, his face be- 
came serious. 

Said Clearview: — “Did you ever see that telegram before ?” 

It was a copy of the message sent by the old gentleman, just 
before his death, requesting his son to bring the man opposite him. 

The face of the millioniare turned red as he stammered : — 

“Yes! - I - I - I!” Then an indignant look came over it, as 
he continued: — “But where did you get this, and what right 
have you to meddle with my business, sir ? ” 

“Why did you not speak to me about what your father request- 
ed, in the telegram ? ” asked the lawyer, calmly. 

“That is none of your business, sir. Why, I am quite surprised 
at this impertinence ! My mind was made up for a pleasant eve- 
ning ! What reason can you have for purloining my papers, and 
scrutinizing my private affairs? ” exclaimed Mr. Clairo, very an- 
grily, as’ he rose to his feet. 

“Be seated, sir, and hear all, for it will be to your interest to do 
so ! Here is the copy of a letter also, which please look at, and 
you might as well be calm, for anger will not help in any way,” 
replied Clearview, handing it to him. 

He snatched the paper hurriedly, and read the words of his 
father, written before death at Jacksonville. 

“This is a clear case of blackmail, boy, and I will not stand it ! 


MOB ILIA. 95 

“I did not think that the junior member of Dizzume & Clear- 
view could stoop to such baseness ! ” This was said very emphati- 
cally, as he took his hat to leave; but hesitating, he turned and 
continued, in a more moderate voice: — “I can scarcely believe 
my senses. What are you trying to do, anyhow ? ” 

“You had better sit down, and listen to me quietly, Mr. Clairo, 
for your own good. I am after seeing that an orphan girl, left 
under the guardianship of your father, and somewhat under yours, 
has her rights and is not deprived of her property ! ” answered 
the lawyer. 

The elder man stood thunderstruck; his mouth opened in si- 
lence, and his hat dropped from his hand to the floor; but, recov- 
ering himself, he paced the floor rapidly, exclaiming : — 

“And this is why you have come under my roof so often! Un- 
der the pretence of courting my daughter, you have been working 
up a case. 

“I thought you were an honorable man, and anticipated a 
nearer relationship, once; but this is beyond endurance.” These 
last words were uttered in a half pathetic voice, as he sank on the 
sofa, though he looked at the young man defiantly, who showed 
that he was moved, but did not lose his self composure in pity for 
a former friend. 

“How do you know that Mobilia had any property, and in 
whose hands it was? It must be she to whom you refer, and 
whom you have succeeded in getting as a client. 

“Suppose I deny that my father ever was her guardian, and ever 
had any of her money; how could you make any such assertion?” 
continued the millionaire. 

Clearview put his hand on a bundle of papers resting on the 
table, and said: — “I have your father’s letters, for twenty years, 
written to the lady in whose charge Mobilia was placed, and I 
am sure that will give proof enough. 

Mr. Clairo sprang to the table, seized the bundle, and made as 
if he would destroy them. 

“Destroy them, if you like, sir. They are only exact copies , and 


96 


MOB ILIA. 


I have the originals in New York,” quietly remarked the lawyer, 
and then went on saying, as the other pulled out several letters to 
hurriedly glance over them : — * 

“ Listen to me, Mr. Clairo, I have always borne a great deal of 
respect for yourself and family, and must confess having had se- 
rious intentions of asking your daughter’s hand in marriage; but 
recent events and the knowledge of this injustice have changed 
everything. 

“Yes, Mobilia is my client. Our intercourse was entirely ac- 
cidental, and my attentions would no doubt be right now directed 
to your daughter, if it had not been for her. 

“In other words, I love Mobilia and she is now my wife! ” 

Before Clearview could rise or prevent, he found himself seized 
by the throat, as the other hissed in his rage:— Villain! You 
have married this woman for her money, but you shall not have 
it!” 

Mr. Clairo was a strong man, but he was dealing with one a 
good deal younger, who loosened himself very quickly, as they 
rolled over on the floor. 

He then locked the door, put the key in his pocket, pulled out 
a revolver, put it back again, and remarked : — 

“You had better deal gently; for I am prepared for emergen- 
cies.” 

Mr. Clairo reseated himself on the sofa, and, after regaining his 
breath, asked in a low, husky voice: — 

“What will satisfy you ? ” 

“Of course you will not believe me, but I am prepared to prove 
it by the very best authority, that when Mobilia married me, I 
neither knew who she really was, nor if she had a cent in the 
world. 

“I want only my wife’s property,” replied Clearview. 

“What amount do you call that ? ” 

“Well, one of these letters says she was left, in your father’s . 
hands, one million' dollars.” 


MOBIL! A. 


97 

*‘Add the inteiest, for twenty years, to that, and you will owe 
her two million, two hundred thousand dollars!” 

The elder man hid his head on the sofa, and groaned. He 
then raised himself, saying impulsively 

“Suppose I refuse to give this! what could you do?” 

“What could I do?” asked Glearview, “That is an odd ques- 
tion to ask an Attorney, who has such an undoubted case. You 
do not want to have your dishonesty brought before the public 
gaze, do you?” 

“If two million dollars were taken from me, I would be a ruined 
man,” uttered the other, 

“It is not my purpose to distress you, Mr. Clairo, but it is only 
justice for me to demand what you owe Mobilia. In financial 
circles your estimated worth is from two to three millions!” / 

“Father and I have made money, and lost , and our assets now 
would not foot up more than two millions.” 

Mr. Clairo had assumed a very respectful tone, and our young 
friend remarked kindly: — 

“If you will turn over to me, at once, the value of one million, 
five hundred thousand dollars, I will let you off for the balance, if 
my wife agrees; otherwise the whole amount shall be fought for.” 

It was late in the night before Mr. Clairo left the hotel, for their 
conference lasted until Clearview was satisfied; but the former 
millionaire went away gloomy enough, because his riches had been 
greatly reduced since the day before. The next day the lawyer 
received a challenge from Harry Clairo. 

“Poor fellow! I have deprived him of not only a sweetheart, 
but a future legacy, ” muttered Clearview, as he sat down to write 
him a note in reply, which read : — 

“My good fellow; 

“I have honored your father and grandfather ; 
had friendship for your mother ; loved your sister, and bear you 
nothing but good will, now. 

“Whatever my actions have been in the last few hours, they 
have been prompted by a sense of duty, and love of my wife. 


9 8 


MOBILIA . 


“Declining to accept your challenge, and hoping your antipathy 
to me will soon be changed to friendship, 

“I am 

“Yours respectfully, 

“Alexander Clearview.” 

CHAPTER XXIII. 

+ 

The following letter was received by Clearview, from Mrs. 
Fresco, on July the 22nd: — 

“Greenbrier White Sulphur Springs, 

West Virginia, July 20th, 1885. 

“My dear friend; 

“From the fact of it being early in the season, 
I have not written again, since my last, announcing having arrived 
here safely, and because little has transpired to give me material 
for composition. 

“But, hereafter, everything will be related as if you never had 
been here before, and then I can write more often. 

“Including my friends, who met me with a warm reception at 
the depot, there were few people here when I came, - stated to be 
about one hundred and twenty. 

“The cool weather kept a great many in the cities, who inten- 
ded to come early, and the young people do not care to be at a 
place like this until it is announced that the band has arrived. 

“This important event of the season, (for what is a Summer 
resort without music,) took place on the tenth, and the ball room 
was then opened. 

“At first there were few people on the floor, the dancing being 
informal, and even now the gentlemen just begin to appear in 
their ‘swallow-tails,’ and the ladies in full dress. 

“Outside of my own immediate circle, some very agreeable peo- 
ple have been met, namely, the Lyons, of Alabama; Stuarts, of 
Virginia, and Jones, of Richmond. 


MOB ILIA. 


99 


t{ Miss Susie Stuart is a niece of the celebrated Confederate 
'chieftan, Gen* J. E. B. Stuart, and Miss Mary Morris Jones is 
one of the belles, of dark hair and fascinating manners. 

‘‘The two Misses Heuy, whom I have seen iri society at home 
several times* came early. 

“They are very fine looking girls, especially the dark-haired, but 
have distant and haughty manners. 

“The Misses Gillery are close associates with them, and people 
say this ‘set’ is quite exclusive ; something unusual at a Southern 
Summer resort. 

“So it appears to me, and their air is this: — ‘Society belongs 
to the elegant* and we are the elegant ! * 

“The venerable Mr. Corcoran, a philanthropist of Washington, 
is here with his family, and occupies the cottage at head of walk 
on east end of parlor. 

“Miss Jones, his niece, is a pleasant lady, and his grandniece, 
Miss Mary Nicholson, is a beautiful girl. 

There were some tableaux given here, several nights since, in 
which the beauties of the Springs shone resplendent. 

“Miss Nellie Ross, of Mobile, Ala., seemed to be the leading 
spirit, m getting them up, and her part of ‘Rosamond’ was very 
well taken. 

“She is a pretty and petite blonde, while Miss Jewett, of New 
York, who represented ‘Queen Eleanor,’ is a magnificent bru- 
nette, and was a queeen in every respect. 

These were the other representations : — 

“ ‘Programme. 

“ ‘Marriage Under the Directory, 

“ ‘Listening at the Door, 

“ ‘Clochette, 

“ ‘Town and Country Courtship, 

* ‘Cornin’ Thro’ the Rye, 


100 


AfOBILIA. 


“ ‘Intermission. 

“ ‘Mistress Mary, How does your Garden Grow? 

“ ‘Queen Eleanor and Rosamond, 

“ ‘Three Young Maids of Lea, 

“ ‘Three Old Maids of Lea, 

“ ‘Two is Company, 

“ ‘Artist’s Studio.’ 

“These tableaux went off very well, with the exception of a lit- 
tle trouble, once, in the curtain arrangement. 

“To day I met Miss A. L. Baxter, of New York, who is a pret- 
ty, black-eyed lady. Her friend, Miss Kate E. Thomas, of Wash- 
ington, is a charming companion. A short time after, I was in- 
troduced to Misses Hill and Joy, of St. Louis. 

“My time has been consumed by taking walks and drives. 

“ ‘Lovers’ Leap’ is a long, shady and beautiful walk, around the 
edge of a hill, which overhangs a little river, rippling through the 
meadows below. 

“There is a precipitous descent, in a certain place, where some 
poor unfortunate once leaped on account of love ; from which fact . 
the name of the walk is derived. I never could get a consistent 
story told about it. 

“Anyhow it is a famous resort for couples, who seek the bench- 
es of the shady nooks, to tell their woes and be requited. 

“I took a stroll with some married ladies yesterday, and we 
startled several on our way. 

“Of course we go regularly to the great ‘Sulphur Spring’, but at 
the distance of a nice walk, around to the West, near the cemetery 
on the hill, is the ‘Iron Spring’, which is visited by many. 

“There are many other walks, one of which is the climb up 
‘Kate’s Mountain’, a whole day’s trip, and the best drive, having 
the prettiest scenery, is to the ‘Grant Farm’. 

“I have been getting posted in regard to the localities, and ac- 
quainted with the people as the number gradually begins to swell. 

“Seven hundred visitors are said to be here now, and before the 


MOBILIA. 


ioi 


‘season’ is out, the latter part of August, there will be from eight- 
een hundred to two thousand. 

“I have a nice seat in the dining room, only several tables from 
the double folding doors, which open into the parlor. 

“They are generally kept open, and a fair chance is offered to 
see the ladies, especially, who generally come to the parlor before 
going to their meals. This is said to be the largest dining room 
in the world. 

“Miss Lee, Gen. Lee, and Robert E. Lee, Jr., the children of 
Gen. Robert E. Lee, commander of the Confederate States’ 
Armies, are here. 

“We have a poet from Alabama, who has engratiated himself 
into my favor so much that I have consented to be his conjidente. 

“You had better come and help me out, for several others have 
asked me to do the same thing. 

“The ‘Poet’ says he wants some girl to mingle her rainbow 
tints with his dull color ; in other words, he wants me to help him 
get a sweetheart. 

“At first I thought this young man to be a flirt, and watched 
him closely. 

“One day he would 'appear to be desperately in love with a cer- 
tain girl, and the next he would be with another. 

“On being accused of fickleness and flirting, he replied : — 

“ ‘The fire-flies and glow-worms are very attractive now, but 
when the Queen of Heaven rises into the horizon of my night, 
these eyes shall rest alone upon her loveliness ! ’ 

“There is another new friend, who strangely interests me, and I 
will not mention his name, because I want you to find him out. 

“When one enters into conversation with him, he gazes with a 
kind and gentle smile; but his eyes begin to grow larger, dilate, 
and a strange fascination takes the beholder, until I feel like rush- 
ing into their liquid depths ! 

“He acknowledged that his ruling passion is - Love of Wo- 
man, and a feeling akin to fear passes over me, in the presence of 
this nature, (so much like the sun,) which imperceptibly and 


102 


MOB ILIA. 


quietly absorbs one, or bums all up in its heat ! 

“What a wonderful and hidden fire this love is ! 

“What a bright and peculiar light it makes in the eye! discern- 
able only by woman. What rich and delicate overtones, it mod- 
ulates in the voice! caught only by the sensitive feminine ear. 
What gentle and beautiful curves it shades in every motion ! no- 
ticed only by the poetic eye of the more impressionable sex. 

“Speaking of the poetic, I enclose some verses suggested to the 
writer while here, which he said might be shown if no names are 
mentioned : — 

“A TALE. 

“ The days were growing shorter, 

And the months flitted along ; 

The mountains rumbled deeply, 

And this was their hoarse song 

“ ‘A man once loved a maiden, 

In the valley there below, 

And his heart began to soften 
Like the sun will melt the snow. 

“ ‘That heart was full of music, 

And those feelings deep and strong; 

But hers was full of fashion, 

And she cared not for his song. 

“ ‘He loved the stately maiden, 

Though she spurned him every day. 

And growing ill and weary, 

He Northward turned his way.* 


“ The years flew by, and often 
She heard his name resound; 

How sad it is that sometimes 
The lost is never found ! ” 

“I have forgotten to name some of the beaux, who are scarce 
yet. 


MOB/LIA. 


103 

“The principal ones are: — Messrs. Nelms and Thomas, of Bal- 
timore; Antrimme, Price and Branch, of Richmond; Judkins, 
ofVa; Robertson and McHugh, of South Carolina; Goldthwaite, 
Stokes, Wilson and Ingram, of New York; Waguespack, Le Jen- 
dre and Violet, of New Orleans; Miller, of Mobile; Dr. Scratchly, 
and McLeod, of Scotland. 

“Some of the pretty married ladies are as follows : — Mesdames 
Carlyle, of Washington; Allen, the Richmond beauty; Rogers, of 
Minneapolis; Blanchard, of Shreveport; Pinson and McCown, of 
Memphis; Polk, Rheinhart and Donnell, of New York; Chopin 
and Grant, of Atlanta; Merriweather, of Louisville; Walton, of 
Norfolk; Christian and Leary, of Richmond; and Smith, of 
Washington. 

“This is a sort of do Ice far niente life. After breakfast the 
married people sit around the porches with their books and papers, 
reading, and a little later get up some game of cards; the young 
people pair off to take walks, play Lawn Tennis, go to the Bow- 
ling Alley, or to generally do nothing, seated under the shady 
trees. 

“Several days ago there was a very pleasant game of Progress- 
ive Euchre played; gotten up by Mr. Thomas, of Baltimore. 

“The music begins just before dinner, which warns all of that 
important event of the day. In the afternoon, every one retires 
to private life, except a few restless spirits, and the married men 
who sit for hours at their game of Whist. 

“The veterans of this occupation are : — Messrs. Jewett, Ven- 
able, Bosher, Drs. Polk and Warren, Judge Gilbert, Admiral Wells 
and Captain William Stanley, who seem to enjoy themselves very 
much. 

“At night dancing begins, the children mostly occupying the 
floor from eight to nine; and afterwards , those of older and more 
stately step consume the hours. 

“But the ‘season’ has hardly begun yet, and fearing to have 
wearied you with a description of what you have often seen, I 
will close. 


“As ever, 


“C. Fresco. 


104 


MOB/L/A. 


CHAPTER XXIV. 

— * — 

It was quite a while before Clearview received another letter, 
which read as follows : — 

“Greenbrier White Sulphur Springs, 

West Va., August nth, 1885. 

“Dear friend; 

“I am sitting on the broad porch, just outside of 
my room, which gives me a fine view to the Northward. 

“The green lawn, and its shade trees, with cottages on its right 
and left borders, the Post Office, Sulphur Spring house, Bowling 
Alley, walk that slopes down to the little bridge over Howard’s 
Creek, the surroundings of the far-off Race Track, and the distant 
mountains, all animated by the moving visitors visible, make a 
very pleasing ensemble to the eye. 

“Music from the Band Stand floats to me, and with such pleas- 
ures of sight and sound, this afternoon I feel inspired to write. 

“Under the trees in the distance there is a couple in tete-a-tete , 
familiar to the eye, and which brings up many associations. 

“Perhaps you can guess that they are Miss Callie and De BaL 
bao. 

“Her party came on the first of the month, and the Spaniard 
has been here several days. 

“She is not very strong yet, and being in mourning in addition, 
of course gaiety is not sought; but a great many admirers seek 
her company. 

“The ‘season’ is now at its height, each one vieing with the 
other to see what a good time she or he can have. 

“Morning Germans, Lawn Parties, Breakfasts, Champagne 
Suppers, Late Dinners, and Teas, - given by individuals, follow 
each other in rapid succession. 

“The celebrated ‘Tread Mill’ was started about two weeks ago, 
which is a circle of handsomely dressed couples promenading, 
around the divan in the middle of the parlor. 


MOB ILIA. 


™5 

“It is a beautiful sight to sit, (if one is fortunate enough to get 
a seat,) and watch them as they pass, two by two. 

“There is more beauty, elegance and refinement observed, and 
I think the ladies are more tastefully dressed, than at Saratoga. 

“Not as much jewelry is to be seen, nor do as many millionaires 
seek this resort; but it seems to me I have met fewer objection- 
able people here, than anywhere, at a place of its kind, in the 
world. 

“Several days since, all heard there would be singing in the 
parlor. 

“It was in the morning, and the large room was soon filled with 
listeners. Mrs. Carlyle, of Washington, a full and rich soprano, 
and Mr. Grant, of Richmond, a well known bass voice, rendered a 
duet. 

“I never saw such a distinguished audience before in my life ; 
made doubly noticeable for being entirely unpremeditated. 

“There were Governors, Judges, Senators, Representatives, 
Ministers, Lawyers, Admirals, Bankers, Generals and Poets, - men 
of eminence, and women suited to be their mates, to be seen like 
children, standing and sitting in rapt attention. 

“To-day I have had the pleasure of meeting the Louisville Poet, 
Mr. Douglass Sherley. He is a gentleman of kind face and man- 
ners, and his works are well known. 

“The daughters of Generals Stonewall Jackson and J. E. B. 
Stuart have been met, also. 

“Tournaments, Straw Rides, Phantom Parties, and other ex- 
citements, seem to be agitating the ever active youthful mind. 
There was a Baseball match several days since, the participants in 
which played dressed in 'Mother Hubbards.’ 

“It is a practice, after every one of these events, as well as the 
Morning Germans, to have a photograph taken of the group which 
took part. 

“The finest night German of the season, which began at eleven 
o’clock, is known as the ‘Stuart German, ’ and the favors were 
particularly admired. 


MOBILIA. 


106 

“Yesterday the young men gave a mule race, witnessed by 
about one thousand people, and it was very amusing to see repre- 
sentatives of some of the first families in the country, as jockeys, 
trying to make their animals come in last. 

“This is a copy of a little poem, written for the occasion and 
read before the people : — 

“‘THE RACE. 

“ ‘Do you know of a place where sweetest of air 
Cools the hot Summer months, so tedious to bear ? 

Where ’neath the cool shade, with mountains around. 

The youth and the maiden take walks to the sound 
Of music, which echoes through Nature’s broad aisles, 
Whether one is rejected, or has her bright smiles ? 

Where woman looks best and works her own will 
In the Ball, at the table, or in the “Tread-mill” ? 

Where couples rejoice, (but sometimes they weep,) 

When they’ve come from a stroll round cool “Lover’s Leap”? 
’Tis the prettiest place, where laughter e’er rings ! 

Yes, here is our scene, at “White Sulphur Springs.” 

“ ‘What is it that seems to enliven them all ? 

It is not a tableau, it is not a Ball ! 

The German we’ye had, to the twinkle of feet, 

With clouds of rich dress, - to see was a treat; 

Excursions are good - Oh, yes, in their place ! 

But nothing is like an old fashioned race ! 

“ ‘Come with me, my friends, and let us go there; 

Let us off to the race, and throw away care. 

Our beauties, our sponsors will grant us some smiles, 

And to see your true love you would go many miles. 

I see them right now, in positions of grace, 

With beauty expressed in the form, in the face; 

And who’d not strive hard to win, get a prize, 

If encouraged by belles with those beautiful eyes ? 

The lovely are there - now list to their names - 
The sweet debutantes, and young married dames ; 


MOB ILIA. 


107 

Rind chaperons, too, look on and enjoy 

The loves of the young, which should never annoy. 

The first to be seen are those whom all like - 
Misses Stuart, Nicholson, Van Wyck; 

Sharp and Jones, who every year 
In kind, sweet smiles will oft appear; 

Ford, Caldwell, Gregg and Littlefield, 

(Who would not to them homage yield?) 

Cullen, Bruce and Thomas fair, 

Those of the black and golden hair ; 

Abercrombie, Cochran, - all have heard 
Their songs, which rival any bird; 

Who are those from “Crescent City”? 

Misses Jackson, Pettit, wise and witty; 

Kentucky’s beauties also shine 
In Cook, Todd, Green, of features fine, 

And Marshall, Eaches, who delight 
The men, by conversation bright; 

Phelps and Gilbert, who can show 
Bright features like the sunset glow; 

Snyder, Jamison and Leigh, 

Whom every one rejoices to see; 

Grinter, Dozier, Hamilton, 

It is said, they many hearts have won; 

Maury, Montague, high-born, 

The former champion of the lawn; 

Ross and Stephenson and Fall, 

Queens of the parlor and the Ball ; 

Richmond surely has her share 
In Handy, Branch, who hearts ensnare; 

Saunders, McKim, Lockwood cheer 
The hearts of those who oft come near ; 

Rogers, Blanchard, Merriwether, 

Cook and Allen stand together. 

‘Now haste to the Race, which soon will begin, 

For all must be there to see who will win ! ’ 


io8 


MOBILIA. 


“I am going over to Beauregard Baths, to-morrow, with a party 
of ladies and gentlemen, to take a nice cold-water bath. The dis- 
tance is only a good walk ; but if it is too warm we will ride. 

Miss Anna Smith, of Baltimore, gave a nice tea, at her resi- 
dence near Dry Creek, several days ago, to which the elite went. 

“Quite a pleasant party sits at our table in the dining-room, 
which consists of Doctor Lake, of Virginia; Doctor and Mrs. 
Warren, of Mobile; Prof. McCabe, of Petersburg; Doctor Hoge, 
of Richmond; Mr. Hutchins, of Washington; and Misses Mar- 
shall and Eaches, of Louisville. 

“On Sundays, we have the privilege of attending either the 
Methodist or Episcopal Churches. 

“Reverend Mr. McKim, of New York, preached last Sunday, 
at the Episcopal Chapel, and a fine sermon it was. There have 
been services by the Bishop of this Diocese, also. 

“The choir, which is made up of amateurs, - the creme de la 
creme of the Springs, does excellently well, and I enjoy their music. 

CHAPTER XXV. 

— * — 

“The young man, who has put so much confidence in me, seems 
to have met his destiny, or preference, at last; for listen to the 
following verses shown to me, and which he said I might show if 
no names were mentioned : — 

“ ‘Why was it he walked with head cast down? 

Why was it his heart was sad ? 

It seemed that the clouds of a deep, deep frown, 

Upon his soul, he had. 

“ ‘No longer was bright that tender eye, 

And expression’s curves were gone ; 

For the inexpressible stamp of a sigh 
Overspread the face forlorn. 


MOBILIA. 


“ ‘He walked to the forest, where Nature was queen, 

For he loved to catch her smile; 

But no bewitchery now was seen, 

And naught served to beguile. 

“ ‘The wind stole by the poet’s ear, 

And whispered in sympathy: — 

“What troubles thee, brother, O let me cheer 
Thy heart to minstrelsy ! ” 

“ ‘A bird flew down, at his listless feet, 

And chirped its sweet, sweet song: — 

“My poet, so gentle, we’re glad to greet 
Thee here; what is it goes wrong?” 

“ ‘The grass bowed its head; the clover, the flowers; 

And sighed-out the wee little ant; 

The voice-leaves of trees and the deep thunder-powers 
Condoled in a kind minor chant. 

“ ‘And what said the mountains, and what did the rill ? 
The clouds and the drops of the rain, 

As he lay on the sward, so lifeless and still? 

And they spoke like they too were in pain: — 

“ ‘ “O brother, we know that thou art our friend! 

No harm can come from that hand; 

Thy heart beats with ours, thy ears attend 
To sounds none understand! 

“ ‘ “Now cast thy eye on us, and once more rejoice, 

As thou didst in the days that are past; 

For thy sight we’ll give beauty, thy ear we’ll give voice, 
And why should this deep sadness last?” 

######*##.###***# 

“ ‘Hark! dearest of friends, to the engine’s loud shriek! 

It wakes me from Summer dreams, bright; 

The rush and the strife of the world I must seek, 

If I’d conquer in the fight. 


MOB ILIA. 


t io 


“ ‘Yes, I must paint the dark tints of life, 

On the canvass of coming years; 

Your colors shall shine though, through the strife, 
Ffom its picture of joys and tears. 


“ ‘In the days that are gone, you did soothe my grief, 
But now the pow’r has fled, 

And where your communion gave relief, 

Its efficacy’s dead! 


“ ‘ “Oh! no!” they said, through the echo-tree, 

And the poet wailed reply : — 

“The one I love does not love me ! ” 

And the wind moaned out - “Good-bye!”’ 

“Miss Hull, of Memphis, invited me to a dinner, which was 
accepted. 

“I will give the names of the fine gentlemen and beautiful girls 
that were there. They were; — 


Belles. 

M iss Olivia Hill, 

Miss Jessie Alcorn, 
Miss Louise Sneed, 
Miss Gertrude Alcorn, 
Miss Caldwell, 

Miss Otey Cullen, 

Miss Ella H. Thomas, 
Miss Lena Jackson, 
Miss Mildred Lee, 
Miss Stansberry, 

Miss Susie Stuart, 

Miss Jones, 


Beaux. 

Mr. Jo. Lane Stern, 

Mr. M. E. Olmstead, 

Mr. Irwin Jamison, 

Col. J. M. Johnston, 

Mr. J. M. Overton, 

Mr. R. Devereux Doyle, 
Mr. George Ernest Miller, 
Mr. H. C. Chamblin, 

Col. A. W. Hamilton, 

Mr. John R. Ficklin, 

Mr. Morton, 

Mr. A. L. Maddox, 


Mr. H. B. Tompkins. 
Chaperons. 


Mrs. Pinson, 


Mrs. McCown. 


“The Misses Alcorn, daughters of Governor Alcorn, of Mississippi, 
gave a complimentary Lawn Party, and I was honored again with 
an invitation. 


MOB ILIA. 


nr 


“One of our poets here wrote some verses descriptive of it, a 
copy of which reads : — 

‘“A LAWN PARTY. 

“ ‘Now whither, O Cupid! do listen I pray; 

Why haste thee so fast, on this beautiful day ? 

“Come with me!” he said, as he stopped by my side, 

“And I’ll show you a scene, that can’t be defied.” 

“ ‘The sky shed its light, like the blush on the cheek 
Of the girl in her ‘teens, whom an artist might seek; 

The mountains looked down, in their first Autumn tints, 

And nodded to couples, to give gentle hints 

“ ‘To hasten their courtship, for Summer fled fast, 

And the day of vacation would end soon, at last. 

He drew me along, and told many things 

That he saw, and would see at “White Sulphur Springs.” 

“ ‘But said he, in tones of the deepest delight: — 

“You now will behold the prettiest sight 
That’s offered to man in the soft Summer days, 

When the youth and the maiden succomb to my ways. 

“ ‘ “Two dark pretty girls, as ever were born, 

Are the ones whom I seek, the Misses Alcorn. 

With hearts all aglow for their friends, they agreed 
To give a nice lunch to Miss Hill and Miss Sneed, 

“ ‘ “Who hail from fair Memphis; a bright Southern gem, 

In the crown of the cities, she is one of them; 

And ask of the people at home, or abroad, 

If they know the fair girls who now grace the sward, 

“ ‘ “And they’ll say: — “In the scenes of the brightest they shine, 
Where Fashion and Wealth and Grace intertwine 
Those joys which add to your masculine bliss;” 

Now we must be there! for the scene I would miss 


112 


MOBILIA. 


“ ‘ “For nothing, because those scenes are so dear 
To my soul; and be careful as we approach near! ” 

He drew me aloft, by the pow’r of his flight, 

And we sat on the limb of a tree, still as night, 

“ ‘Which spread its cool shade on the youthful below, 

Who laughed and drank toasts, while the Sprite bent his bow. 
I’ll tell you the names of the ones who sat there, - 
The names of the men, and the maidens so fair; 

“ ‘And they ate and they drank, while the kind chaperons 
Beamed on them in smiles, like queens from their thrones. 
They sat, two together, - Oh, why should they part, 

To leave that cold vacuum in the young heart? 

“ ‘And their spirits were gay, as flowed the champagne, 

Which enlivens the mind, like the earth feels the rain. 

Hist ! if you would hear the names he tells, 

Not of the beaux, but of the belles: — 

“ ‘ “The Misses Alcorn, Sneed and Hill,- 
(I know a Tennessean well! ) 

Nicholson and Jones and Leigh, - 
Now who could. name a sweeter three! 

“ ‘ “Pitman, Stuart, Phelps, Caldwell, - 
Any one of these a belle ; 

Tucker, Zieland, dark Rambeau, 

Who always many graces show, 

“ ‘ “The beaux are right,- they know the fair; 

Let’s see, of them , what ones are there :- 
There’re Chamblin, Nutt and Lejendre kind, 

The last who does divert the mind 

“ ‘ “Of all, and by his handsome face, 

In smiles dispels dark ennui's trace; 

Tucker, Pleasants, Jamison, 

Who always enjoy any fun; 


MOB ILIA. 


ir 3 


* ‘ ‘‘On Olmstead, Sneed, the party boasts, - 
And Doyle, to make the finest toasts; 

Maddox, Pitman, Grant and Ross,- 
To the party they would be a loss; 

‘ “Fogg, McKinney, Hamilton, 

Those whom the beauties never shun ; 

Dudley, Rutherford, Anduried, 

They too, the company must need. 

■“ ‘ “The Chaperons , their names now hear,- 
Those whom the young will never fear 
Mesdames Pinson, McCowan, Polk, ' 

And Alcorn,- all those high-born folk.” 

** ‘We sat and saw, to music’s strains, 

Which gave excitement to our brains, 

And when the Sprite drew back his bow, 

The ones he wounded, none can know; 

“ ‘But this Lawn Party gave me joy, 

And did the care in all destroy!’ 

“Miss Gybe and I have become as good friends as ever, and 
her company is enjoyed; for you know how bright she is. 

“Her remarks can be filled with more sarcasm than those of any 
person of my knowledge, and it is amusing to hear her criticise peo- 
ple; but this is not always her mood. 

“Etiquette is very strict here, in some particulars; for instance, 
•as regards young ladies, in promenading and sitting on the porches 
with gentlemen, after dark. 

“People have less to say about each other than at more North- 
ern resorts, and one hears very little, if any scandal. 

“A lady friend said to me:-* ‘It is a dangerous thing to start a 
scandal in the South; for the men, though ordinarily quiet, will 
fight at a trifle.’ 

“There was a rumor that two duels were about to be fought. 
One was occasioned by the rivalry of two young men in their at- * 


MOB ILIA. 


114 

tentions to a young lady from Washington, and the other grew 
out of some remarks made about the appearance of a Southern 
man. 

“I was almost run over, and very much frightened, while cross- 
ing the lawn this morning, by a horse, which, attached to the 
vehicle, ran regardless of the road, at full speed, scattering every- 
body before him. 

“It belonged to Miss Thomas, of Richmond, a bright girl and 
charming conversationalist, and who has a sister as sweet as the 
breath of Spring. 

“MisS Callie told me yesterday that Mrs. Clairo, Alice and Mo- 
bilia would be here on the thirteenth. 

“I must now close, for it is so dark that the location of my lines 
has to be guessed at. Good-night. 

“As ever, 

“C. F ” 

Clearview did not get this letter in New York ; for the next day 
found him at the Springs, where he was quietly and generally 
recognized as a former leader, competent to make all enjoy them- 
selves. 


CHAPTER XXVI. 

\ 

— + — 

It was a warm night, and the large Ballroom was full. 

Many who could not find seats within, to see the dancers, stood 
or sat outside at the windows, looking in; in fact, it was much 
more pleasant on the porch. 

“Speaking of being engaged,” said Miss Gybe, to a small 
group, occupying one of the windows with her, “I think the prac- 
tice,^ the North, of announcing engagements is so silly, - another 
imitation of the English. 

“In the South, when two are engaged, it is not heralded to the 
world, but there is simply an understanding between the ones in- 
terested, (who may change their minds at any time,) and the 
community is not certain as to the fact, until the wedding cards 
are sent. 


MOB ILIA. 


US 

“There, in case the engagement were broken off, who could say 
that it was anything but a passing fancy. 

“Publishing engagements always seems to me as if the couple 
either wants to gain notoriety, or that each is afraid the other 
will be untrue. 

“If I could not hold a man without bringing this pressure to 
bear on him, then welcome celibacy. 

“And what good does it do ? Society is satisfied when they are 
joined together as man and wife; then, should a published en- 
gagement be broken off, the whole little affair is open to the eyes 
of all, and gives food for the gossip’s tongue.” 

Replied one of her friends: — “But that gives Southern girls a 
chance to be engaged to several men at once, and they all become 
flirts!” 

“Well,” answered the former, “if that is the tendency, it is bet- 
ter for them to flirt before , than to adopt the practice of some of 
their Northern sisters, - to flirt after marriage. 

“If I am informed correctly, there are more divorces in the State 
of Connecticut, yearly, than in all the Southern States put togeth- 
er. 

“Who are those two ladies passing ? ” asked another of the 
party. “I think the old lady has such an aristocratic face, and 
there is so much character in it, while the young ones are quite 
pretty.” 

“That is Mrs. William McKim, of Baltimore; one of the girls is 
Miss Lulie McKim, her granddaughter, and the other is Miss 
Wharton, of Washington. 

Let us go to another window, where a gayer group is taking the 
part of observers. 

“There is Mr. Clearview!” exclaimed a fashionably dressed 
young lady, “I have not seen him dance yet.” 

“What a beautiful dancer he is, and what a beau he used to 
be ! ” said another. 

“I guess the fact that Miss Clairo is not here to be his partner, 
has something to do with it,” added another. 


n6 MOP ILIA. 

“The Spaniard will steal his lady-love, if he does not mind,” 
uttered a chaperon. 

“To what do you attribute Mr. Clearview T s remarkable success 
with the ladies?” asked another chaperon, leaning to this lady in 
a confidential manner. 

The first whispered: — “To his innate admiration and love for 
our sex, and possessing the gift of knowing how to gracefully 
show it. 

“No woman can see love for her exhibited by a true man, with- 
out being affected ! ” 

Clearview left the Ballroom and came out on the porch, where 
he joined Mrs. Fresco and her party. 

Standing near her, he said : — 

“Please point me out all the celebrities, and tell me about 
them ! ” 

“Follow the room right around, now, said she,” and I will name 
the people, if possible, as they come : — 

“That vivacious girl on the end seat, with Mr. Joynes, of Rich- 
mond, is Miss Emily Thom, of Washington, whb is exceedingly 
bright. Near her are Misses Coghill and Detreville, of Richmond. 

“The gentleman standing, is Mr. Jo. Lane Stern, one of the 
greatest society men in Virginia, and the lady who sat down is 
Miss Tucker, a very pretty dancer. 

“But the most graceful girl,- the one just accepting her partner, 
is Miss Nicholson, of Washington. 

“This handsome man is Mr. Ives, the youngest member of the 
New York Legislature, and that is Miss Bethell, of Memphis, near 
him. 

“There goes Ex- Governor Hamilton, of Maryland, with his wife 
and daughter. 

“On that back row of seats you will see Dr. Ross, of Richmond, 
with his townsmen, Thomas Branch, a well known banker, and 
James Alfred Jones, a prominent lawyer. 

“Dr. Cullen, of the same place, is escorting his wife to a seat. 


MOBIL/A. 


tij 

and just behind are Messrs. Maury, of Washington, and Gregg of 
Charleston. 

“The two tall ladies are the Misses Green, daughters of Dr. 
Norvin Green, of Louisville, and that is Miss Hinton, accompan- 
ied by her father, a banker *bf Petersburg. 

“That is Miss Baker, of Norfolk, passing by us with Col. Rob- 
ert Swepson, of Knoxville, and see these gentlemen on the porch, 
going down to the office? They are the celebrated Rev. Drs. J. 
L. M. Curry and Thomas, of Richmond. 

“The lady turning her head this way is Miss Sprigg, of Mary- 
land, and beyond are Senator Gibson, Judges v Wylie and Manning, 
and Gen. King, of Louisiana. 

“Those ladies, who are taking ice-water, are Misses Donaldson, 
of Philadelphia ; Phenix, of Washington; and Binse, of New York. 

“The gentlemen standing near the door, are Mr. Fry, President 
of a New York bank, Messrs. Zane, of Louisville; Grant, of At- 
lanta; and Col. William Johnston, of Georgia. 

“That exquisite blonde, by the Colonel, is Miss Mary, his 
daughter. 

“You have a fine memory,” said Clearview, as he thanked her. 
After talking a few moments, he walked down towards the office, 
alone. 

He was very restless, for one, most dear, was expected to arrive 
on the cars, due at ten o’clock and ten minutes. 

It was the practice of many visitors, to leave the Ballroom at 
this hour and come to the office, to see the omnibus arrive with its 
load of passengers. 

To meet Mobilia there would not do; so he concluded to go 
down to the depot, only several hundred yards away. 

Passing the parlor quickly, the broad path was taken, running 
through the grove of trees, bordered on the left by the long line of 
white cottages* that looked sepulchral in the dim moonlight, and 
on the other side by the hotel. 

His heart beat in excitement at the thought of soon meeting his 
beautiful bride. 


MOB ILIA. 


n8 

“Hello, Clearview!” exclaimed one of three young men, as he 
met them near the Branch Cottage, “Where are you going ? " 

“Only to the depot, to meet some friends. And where have 
you three been ? " replied the lawyer. 

“Oh, we have been visiting down to Dry Creek. 

“Look out, as you cross the road yonder, for there is a ghost 
behind one of those trees ! ” said another. 

“You cannot scare me, boys, I have seen too many of them," 
answered Clearview, passing along laughing, as the moon shone 
out almost plain as day. 

“Let us watch him goby there!" whispered the first speaker; 
and he drew his comrades into the shade of one of the trees. 

Though our friend did scarcely notice the remark of the young 
man, a glance was given towards the tree mentioned, as he ap- 
proached. 

He was only a few yards off, and, turning his head sideways as 
he passed, saw a figure spring towards him from behind it, which 
exclaimed : — 

“My turn has come now, John Morton!" 

Well enough was that voice known, and Clearview jumped aside 
as the gleam of a dirk flashed in the eyes, in passing his face. 

The man rushed at him again, and the three witnesses approach- 
ed rapidly. 

“Stand back, De Balbao! I say! Come at your peril!" uttered 
Clearview, revolver in hand, running backwards, as the powerful 
arm struck at him. 

The three men saw it all, heard the report of the revolver, and 
De Balbao fell face forward into the road! 

They were soon bending over the body, by the side of the one 
attacked, who said:-^ 

“I call you to witness, gentlemen, the deed was done entirely 
in self-defence ! " 

The rumbling of the stage was heard as it came from the depot, 
and the small group in the road was almost run over. 


MOBILIA . 


IJ 9 


“What is it ? ” the driver and passengers asked. 

They knew very soon, and a crowd collected. A beautiful face 
looked out of the stage window, and seeing her beloved among 
the group, Mobilia immediately alighted, was at the lawyer’s side, 
and her arms about his neck. 

The man who was with her in Atlanta followed, and tried to 
restrain her, but he could not. 

“He is dead!” said the doctor, “carry him over to that cottage 
in Broadway Row!” 

Mobilia caught sight of his form and face, and quitting her 
husband bent over the dead man, as if to be sure of the features. 

When the light was thrown upon them again she exclaimed 
wildly, returning to Clearview : — 

“Oh, my God ! who has killed him ? He was my brother! ” 

• The lawyer turned his head away in anguish, and could say 
nothing; while the body was carried off and the stage moved on. 

“Come away from here, Clearview,” said one of his friends, 
seeing his distress and gently taking his arm. 

Mobilia clung to him, and her companion of the stage followed, 
as the lawyer allowed himself to be lead away. 

“Where shall we go, Dunning? ” asked he, as they walked along. 

“Do not go back to the hotel,” replied Dunning, “but come 
with me down to Dry Creek, where we will get accommodations 
for the night. 

“I suppose an officer of the law will come to arrest you after a 
while, if there is any about here, and it would be less mortifying 
to be down there.” 

After they were rid of the crowd, the other man drew the speak- 
er aside, whispered a few words in his ear, and they went on ahead, 
leaving man and wife together. 

“If what you say is true, Mobilia, about De Balbao being your 
brother, you will not love me any longer, for / killed him ! ” moaned 
Clearview. 


120 


M0BIL1A . 


Mobilia’s hold about his neck was released, and she fell back 
against the fence ; while her husband intently looked at her. 

She seemed to be stunned; then to gain her self-possession, stood 
erect, gazed a moment at his motionless form, rushed to him, put 
her arms as before, kissed his lips, and cried, weeping; — 

“I would love you if a thousand brothers were killed!” 

He then told her how it all happened, and leaning on his arm, 
they soon entered one of the Dry Creek cottages. 

Dunning went back to the Springs, promising to come again 
later, and the three were left alone. 

“What did yon say this man’s name is?” asked Clearview. 

“This is Link Lane, who was confidential servant of my father. 
He knows more about my history than anybody in the world, ex- 
cepting Mr. Clairo, ” answered Mobilia. 

After a long conversation, it was agreed that Link should take 
her on to New York, and Clearview would follow as soon as po*s-- 
sible. 

He could not go with them, as the law required to be satisfied 
in some way, for the death dealt by his hand. 

As anticipated, he was taken into custody the next day; but by 
the aid of his many friends the officers of the law released him to 
appear at the proper time for trial. 

The body of Francisco De Balbao was forwarded to New Or- 
leans, to be deposited by the side of his father, Mr. Alfred Lane. 

About one week after, Mobilia welcomed her husband in the 
Metropolis of this country. 

CHAPTER XXVII. 

+- — 

It was the twentieth of August, and when the New York papers 
came out that morning, those bright eyes in society that are ac- 
customed to look for the announcement of marriages, dilated, and 
a number of bosoms sighed when the union of Alexander Clear- 
view and Mobilia Lane, in the bonds of matrimony, at Grace 
Church, was made public. 


MOB ILIA. 


1 2 1 


The ceremony was quietly performed, and very few invitations 
issued. 

“How beautifully she looks!” thought Clearview, as he left the 
side of a little lady, who had to be wheeled in a chair, to join his 
wife at the Ladies’ Entrance of the Windsor Hotel. 

“Who was that?” asked* she. 

“Little Miss Marion Foster, who is an artist. She and I are 
old friends. 

“Perhaps you may have heard of a brave little woman who shot 
a burglar, while entering her apartments, at Saratoga, about one 
year ago. This is the one.” 

They were soon in their elegant suite of rooms, and when rest- 
ed, she took out of her pocket something that looked like a legal 
document. 

“What is that?” asked he. 

“Will you promise to take it and do as I tell you?” said she, 
with an arch smile. 

“How could I refuse you anything, Mobilia,” answered he, ten- 
derly. 

“But will you promise?” 

“Of course I will, if it can be done consistently,” was his an- 
swer. 

“Well,” said she, “when we were married, you promised to en- 
dow me with all your worldly goods, and as only my poor self was 
given in return, I am going to get even by endowing you with 
mine.” 

The document was handed to him, and, glancing over it, to his 
surprise, he -found that legal papers had been made in due form, 
making him the beneficiary of all her property. 

Really this was no trifling gift; for besides the amount received 
from Mr. Clairo - she being the only heir - the great De Balbao 
■estate, in Mexico, worth somewhere near ten million dollars, would 
come to Mobilia. Only the proof of her identity was necessary. 

Clearview was so moved that he could not speak; the paper 


122 


MOBILIA. 


dropped from, his hand as he stood there, and he looked at her a 
moment, gravely. 

She arose, came to him and put her head on his shoulder. 

“I feel, darling, that without you , it would all be as ashes. 

“But you cannot give it to me, for I am yourself, and the gift 
would be self-appropriation ! ” said he, kissing her passionately. 

“And what will you do with the balance that Mr. Clairo owes 
you?” 

“Give it to my sweet Alice!” exclaimed she. 

“It would amount to nearly half a million,” replied he, “and I 
would not humiliate the old folks, by taking it all from them. 

“I think it would be well to give Alice half, and Mrs. Clairo the 
balance.” 

“Do just as you like!” said she. 

Rap, rap, rap, sounded on the door, and the boy presented a 
card, marked : — Link Lane. 

“Tell him to come up,” was the order. 

They were seated at the table with Link opposite, who said, 
drawing out some papers and addressing Mobilia : — 

“These are copies of the letter and other papers given to me by 
Mr. Lane, before his death, to be handed to Mr. Clairo, Sr. when 
I should carry you away. 

“The country being overrun by the soldiers of both the North 
and South, he did not know whether another letter, sent through 
the mail, would ever reach his friend, and therefore sent this by 
me, also. 

“Fearing for myself, in the future, I made copies of everything, 
^nd here they are.” 

Clearview took them, and began reading aloud : — 

“Eden Plantation, April 3rd, 186-. 

“Friend of my boyhood; 

“I received a heavy fall from my 
horse, not long ago, sustaining injuries that will put me in the 
grave. 


MOB ILIA. 


12 $ 


“Knowing that death is near, my business must be straightened 
before it is too late; and as there is no one in whom I have as 
much confidence as yourself, the disposition of the principal part 
Of my property will be placed in your hands. 

“You know the history of my early life; especially that part 
which relates to my love trouble in Mobile, Alabama, many years 
ago. 

“That is why I entered the Mexican War, going through all the 
march of our army from the sea to the Metropolis. 

“When our victorious troops were in the City of Mexico, I saw 
and loved a maiden, who returned the love of a Captain of her 
country’s enemies. 

“She was the beautiful daughter of Don Miguel De Balbao, who 
married an Indian Cacique’s child. This lady was his only heir. 

“We were married against the will of her father, and naturally 
so; for it could not be expected that he would have any love for 
one of the conquerors of his country. 

“Though he would not attend the wedding, so much love was 
borne toward his daughter that, after our marriage we were invi- 
ted to come to live with him, at his fine residence in the Me- 
tropolis. 

“This was accepted, because I wanted to show my good will, 
and I would not deprive him of his only child, at once. 

“He was surely lonesome enough, having lost his wife several 
years before. 

“Notwithstanding I was treated with the respect due a son-in- 
law, yet it was apparent to me that Don Miguel never got over 
his prejudice for a soldier of the United States. 

“To live beneath his roof and receive his bounty, under these 
circumstances, could not be borne by a high-spirited son of the 
‘Star Spangled Banner,’ and, longing for my own country, I de- 
termined to leave as soon as opportunity would offer. 

“In 1850 a son was bom to us. I named him Montgomery, 
•after the capital of my State. 

'“He was a handsome baby, and his grandfather could not be 


124 


MOBILIA. 


enough in the child’s company. 

“Don Miguel said he was the image of his dead wife, and would 
hang over my son by the hour. 

“When Montgomery was six months old, we made preparations 
to return to the United States, by way of Vera Cruz. 

“On the way to the coast, our party was attacked by brigands, 
and some were separated from the rest. 

“To our great distress, our nurse and son were not to be found. 

“We returned to the City, and spent months in trying to get 
news of him; but he never has been heard of since, and we came 
to New Orleans. 

“I suspected several times that Don Miguel might have had 
something to do with carrying off my child, and sent detectives 
twice, within several years, to see if they could find out anything; 
but their efforts were always fruitless. 

“At New Orleans I bought a plantation, and soon went to 
raising cotton. 

“Considerable money was made in this way, and a handsome 
fortune, by shipping cotton to Europe, through the blockade. 

“Most people think what they see about me comprises my for- 
tune; little knowing that I have a balance of over Two hundred 
thousand Pounds in the Bank of England, subject to my check. 

“The life lived with my beautiful wife has been quite happy; 
but one drawback has presented itself, and that is her religion. 
She is a rigid Roman Catholic, and I am a Protestant. 

“Knowing what an immense fortune awaits her, at the death of 
her father, the priests in this country have kept close watch, and 
have been particularly assiduous in their pastoral duties to her. 

“Much can be borne in this world, for the love of a beautiful 
woman ; but, God willing, I do not intend that my daughter, born 
several months ago, shall become a Roman Catholic. 

“Left to the education of my wife, the dear child would be 
brought up in a Convent. 

“The consequence will be that she will take the black veil, and 


MOB ILIA. 


I2 5 


my property, for which so much Protestant energy has been spent, 
will be donated to the Roman Catholic Church. 

“You can help me in this matter, my old playmate, and I ask 
you to grant the request of a dying man. 

“Link, my valued and faithful servant, will bring you my child, 
taken from its mother, after I am gone. 

“It may appear to be cruel, but there is only one way to ac- 
complish my object. 

“Do take good care of her, and put the child where she will be 
raised a Protestant! 

“At the age of fifteen, you can return her to my wife ; for I do 
not fear any influence that can be brought to bear, after being 
instructed in the right way that length of time. 

“For her support and future comfort, enclosed you will find a 
check on the Bank of England, to your order, for Two hundred 
and Ten thousand Pounds. 

“Please invest this money as you think best, deducting a liberal 
commission, and return it to her, when of age. 

“If my son should ever turn up, and I have requested Link to 
try to find him, this legacy is to be divided. You will also find 
herein the necessary legal papers to that effect. 

“My wife will not suffer, for I have willed her all of my visible 
property, here. 4 

“When Link delivers the child, please facilitate him in collect- 
ing the enclosed check on a New York bank, for Five thousand 
dollars, made payable to your order, and which he deserves. 

“You can put entire confidence in this boy; for he has been 
my shadow for years. 

“Do take good care of my offspring! 

“Knowing that armies and battles are between us, I feel that 
we never will meet again, and must say, with love and blessings, 
my old schoolmate, - Good-bye forever! 

“Affectionately, 


“Alfred Lane.” 


I 26 


MOBILIA . 


Mobilia took the letter from her husband and pressed it to hef 
lips, while Link went on to tell how he got possession, and placed 
her in the arms of Mr. Clairo, Sr. 

He said that advertisements were made, so far as could be at 
that time, and rewards offered for him and the child, who w6re 
both missing; but by the aid of Mr. Clairo, Sr. he got through the 
lines, and went to New York. 

Mr. Clairo, Sr. secreted Mobilia until after the War, and then 
took her North. 

Not very long afterwards, the news came from New Orleans am 
nouncing the death of Mrs. Lane; leaving Mobilia entirely alone 
in the world, with Mr. Clairo, Sr. as her guardian. 

“When did you go down to Mexico, Link?” asked Clearview. 

“Many things prevented me from carrying out Mr. Lane’s wishes 
in regard to finding his son, and it was put off time after time until 1 
I met your wife in Atlanta. 

“I knew that she was Mr. Lane’s daughter then , the grand- 
daughter of Don Miguel De Balbao, but wanted to make the whole 5 
matter clear, and see if any clue could be found to the whereabouts 
pf her brother, - the stolen Mexican Don. 

“My inquiries down there, recently, proved beyond a doubt, 
that Francisco De Balbao, who was then in the United States, 
was grandson of Don Miguel and the Indian Princess, whose 
daughter was your wife’s mother.” 

Proud descendants of Pocahontas, in Virginia! How can your 
pedigree compare with that of a child of the Montezuma, whose 
fylood was mingled with the pure stream emanating from the Court 
of Ferdinand and Isabella? 

After looking over some Other papers with Clearview, Link took 
his departure. 

: The couple was silent sometime after he had gone, when Mo- 
bilia broke into the quietness by saying : — 

“I wrote to Miss Domaine that she must come to live with us, 
when we come back from our trip*” 


MOB ILIA. 


127 


“We cannot be gone very long,” replied her husband, “for my 
trial comes off soon, and I would not have my bondsmen suffer.” 

They had arranged to leave for Put-in-Bay Island,' Lake Erie, 
that night. 

He had to go down town for a short while, and the Elevated 
Railroad was soon bearing him in transit. 

Walking along Wall Street rapidly, who should appear but Dun- 
ning. 

“Come and take lunch with me!” exclaimed the lawyer. 

They were soon seated in the restaurant and began to talk : — 

“Your friend, Mrs. Fresco, was quite ill when I left, so several 
ladies told me,” said Dunning, as a look of pain passed over his 
companion’s face, the color of which came and went. 

a 

“That is too bad,” replied Clearview, looking away, “I must 
£end my sympathy, in some way.” 

Noticing it pained his friend, the first remarked, to change the 
subject: — 

“See that waiter, how obsequious he is, in his expectation of get- 
ting a quarter; and if he does not get it, the next time the gentle^ 
man comes ih he had better take another seat. 

“Yes, I observe,” said the lawyer. “Great admiration was had 
by me for the student waiter, in the White Mountains, last season, 
who, when handed a half dollar by a millionaire, for his prompt 
attention, remarked : — 

“ ‘Thank you, but I do not require a premium to be paid me 
for doing my duty ! ’ 

“It is curious that an Anglo-Saxon element will never submit to 
the tyranny of kings, but allow itself to be oppressed by servants, 
every day. 

“If I were to ever keep a hotel, my guests should be protected , , 
by an announcment that all employees receiving ‘tips ’ would be 
immediately discharged.” x 


128 


M0BIL1A . 


CHAPTER XXVIII. 

4 * 

Put-in-Bay Island is a very pretty spot out in Lake Erie, 
situated near where Commodore Perry had his celebrated Naval 
combat with the British. 

It is covered with vineyards and beautiful shade trees, among 
which latter, not far from the Lake, are built a number of fine ho- 
tels. 

This place is frequented by people from Cleveland, Sandusky 
and other cities, not far off ; also by many from the interior, who 
seek recreation and the cool air of the water. 

Though it was getting near the close of the season, Clearview 
and Mobilia had enjoyed themselves very much for a week ; but 
no doubt they would have been happy in each other’s company 
most anywhere in the world. 

To their astonishment and pleasure, Bowlder and his bride, 
formerly Miss Rosamonde, were found at the same hotel where 
they came; and a good time was enjoyed in their company. 

The hours were taken up in walks, driving over the Island, visit- 
ing the neighboring ones, and boating; while, when they were 
disposed to remain quiet, the fine band pleased the ear with rich 
music. 

It was the afternoon of a very warm day, the forenoon of which 
had been spent in seeing a cave, some distance from the hotel. 

Clearview was invited to take a sail with a friend of his, and 
Mobilia, not feeling very well from a bad cold, said she would 
walk with them down to the landing, at the end of the Island, but 
it was not best for her to go out on the water. 

The two gentlemen got into the little yacht; the sail was set to 
the wind, and away she flew ; leaving her standing gracefully on 
the steps, waving her handkerchief, 

“Do not stay long!” were the last words borne to them by the 
wind, and she turned, retracing her steps slowly up the pier. 
When the land was reached, a seat was taken, from which a pair 
of bright eyes could behold the course of the little vessel as it grew- 
smaller. 


MOB ILIA, 


129 

It tacked this way and that, skimming the water like a bird,- 
but what was that! 

Deep thunder sounded in the distance; the wind came in puffs, 
•died out, and a chilly sensation crept over her. 

Looking through the trees, toward the other end of the Island, 
a black cloud appeared to be rising out of the Lake, and there 
were dark creases coming on the water. 

The wind had whipped entirely around, now, coming from the 
North. 

The squall struck the Island; the trees began to waive violently, 
and the few people on the pier, and in boats, quickly hastened to 
the land to seek their abodes ; while the dark streaks passed on 
over the Lake, to the Westward. 

Mobilia was alarmed, and earnestly gazed at the little yacht, 
containing her husband. 

It was about half a mile out, seemed to be still for want of 
wind, then the squall struck her, - when she was seen no more, 

“Oh, dear ! I am afraid she has capsized,” said she, holding 
her hand to her heart, and hastening down the pier, while the 
howling wind wrapped the dress around her beautiful form. 

Several young men were running by, and she exclaimed to 
them : — - 

“Stop ! Cannot some of you take a boat out to those men, who 
have capsized ? ” 

They looked at the beautiful woman, and heard the pleading 
tones, but only answered as they turned to go:— “It is too 
rough!” 

Such as these would be called “dudes” in New York. 

Mobilia’s eyes flashed, as she cried to their retreating figures: — 

“Cowards, and shells of men! will you let a woman go alone? ” 
but they were soon out of sight. 

Descending the steps quickly, she untied with difficulty, one of 
the boats, chafing its rope, got in and pushed it off. 

The experience of her girlhood, in rowing on Lake Winnipeg 


130 


MOBILIA. 


saukie, now came in good service ; but the little boat went up and 
down over the waves like a mere straw, getting farther and farther 
from the land. 

How dark it was getting! and the wind grew in violence. Now 
and then she would cease rowing, or trying to row, for the oars 
half the time beat the air, as the boat plunged, and strain her eyes 
to catch a sight of the overturned sailboat, crying: — 

“Alexander! O Alexander, where are you ? ” 

So high were the waves now, that all control was lost of the 
boat, and she sat vainly trying to steer it, as the spray drenched 
her form. 

* 

The sea-gulls hung over, giving their notes in sympathy, as her 
raven hair fell to the bottom of the boat, and the cry went up 
again : — 

“Alexander! O my husband, where are you?” 

The little boat was raised on a wave for the last time, - for it 
came down with a crash against something! It was the capsized 
yacht! and the beautiful form was thrown far out into the surging 
sea, while the two boats rapidly drifted away. 

Was there no one to see her struggling in the foaming breakers? 
Was there no one to rescue? 

A last cry: — “Alexander! Oh, Alexander ! ” was uttered, as 
that beautiful head came up once more, - and a huge wave went 
over it forever! 

A large lumber schooner swept by, before the wind, and a 
dripping form hung over her side, while two sailors held him back. 

It was Clearview, and he shouted, struggling: — 

“Let me go, men ! I heard the voice of my wife ! ” 

“Fool, man! If you did, it was from the shore!” replied one 
of them, and they carried him below. The schooner had heard 
the lawyer’s shouts of distress, from the yacht, tacked up, and 
threw over a line, by which he was saved ; but his companion had 
been already drowned by the heavy sea. 

The bereaved man was taken, or rather led by Bowlder, back 


MOB ILIA. 


* 3 * 

to New York; for he did not appear to know what he was doing, 
or where going. 

In a few days, the following appeared in one of the papers, - 
a small tribute from the pen of his old sweetheart, Miss Rosa- 
monde 

“ Who was it that loved, and proved it true? 

Mobilia. 

Who dared what men refused to do? 

Mobilia. 

“ The waves were high, but her love was there ; 

Mobilia. 

She stepped in the boat and breathed a prayer; 

Mobilia. 

“ Who went out to sea, with all her charms ? 

Mobilia, 

For her husband was in the waves’ dark arms; 

Mobilia. 

Who faced the ocean’s raging strife ? 

Mobilia. 

To save her love, she gave her life I 
Mobilia.” 

CHAPTER XXIX. 

— * — 

Never were friends kinder and more sympathetic, than those of 
the young lawyer. 

Mr. Dizzume, his partner, who was like a father, exerted him- 
■self to cheer him. 

Though business was attended to regularly, every action of 
Clearview seemed to be done with a vacant air. 


MOBILIA. 


132 

The time for his trial was now near at head, and preparations 
were made for going down to Virginia. 

How different the trip would be from what he had looked for- 
ward to a month before, when a beloved voice sounded in his ears 
to cheer him. 

Mr. Dizzurne, Dunning and others would be in the company 
though, and that served as a good deal of comfort. 

Mrs. Fresco had only been seen once, since his bereavement. 

She was very thin, from her recent illness, but the same old 
smile, so refreshing, greeted him; bringing up memories of by-gone 
days. 

One moment in her society appeared to do more in allaying his 
grief and melancholy, than all the efforts of a numerous acquaint- 
ance combined. 

He said that a trip to Europe would be taken, as soon as the 
trial were over. 

Let us not go through with all the details of this trial, but suf- 
fice it to say that he was entirely acquitted, on the ground of self- 
defence. 

A number of his acquaintances was going across the water, to 
spend the Winter in the South of France, and elsewhere, and a 
party was soon made up. 

Mrs. Fresco said she would go too, much to his pleasure. 

********** ********* 

Christmas had almost come, and a good part of the company, 
which had started from New York on the “Cunarder,” was now 
in Venice, seeing the sights there, leisurely. 

Clearview, Mrs. Fresco and others had been to Rome, viewing 
the Ancient, Mediaeval, and Modern glories of that historic city - 
in Palaces, Churches and works of Art. 

The same was done at Florence,- the home of the Medici, - 
and Milan, where that beautiful Cathedral points heavenward with 
its many fingers, and LaScala Theatre echoes and reechoes with 
sounds of the Drama and Opera. 


MOB ILIA. 


T 33 


Turin and Lake Como, also, came in on the route, and now 
they were settled for quite a while; a portion of the party anyhow. 

Through all of these meanderings, though not indifferent, Clear- 
view did not appear to enjoy himself. 

Most of the time, he found himself at the side of Mrs. Fresco, 
whose company alone seemed agreeable. 

Everything was natural and easy, but a strange influence was 
exercised over him by her. 

She did not try to allay his grief by interposing contrasts, when 
those deep feelings came over him almost overwhelmingly; but 
entered the border-land of sorrow, gradually, and by winning and 
transposing tones of minor to major, led him to regret, to retro- 
spect, on to that of sweet memories. 

He was inclined to neglect those things necessary to the preser- 
vation of health, and did not seem to care whether he lived or 
died. 

A gentle suggestion from her, at the proper time, always had its 
effect, and, before he knew it, an indispensable support, in living 
grace, was at his side. 

To use the words of Bryant: — 

“For his gayer hours 
She has a voice of gladness, and a smile 
And eloquence of beauty, and she glides 
Into his darker musings, with a mild 
And healing sympathy, that steals away 
Their sharpness, ere he is aware.” 

But notwithstanding the guardianship of his fair friend, some 
indiscretion, or imprudence, had brought on ill-feelings, which cul- 
minated in a seige of fever, at the City of Waters. 

Some attributed it to going out into the air before the sun had 
cleared away the unhealthy mists, and others to passing from the 
warm sunshine outside, into the chilling atmosphere of the cold 
churches. 

But who can tell the mysteries of the human frame ? 


134 


MOB ILIA. 


How quickly high fever will rob even vigorous manhood of its 
strength, and Clearview lay in the Hotel Victoria, as helpless as a 
child, after several weeks of illness. 

The gentlemen of the party took turns in their offers of kindness 
to him; but another eye was always on the watch, ^ far more effica- 
cious in the results. 

His friends had visited St. Mark’s Cathedral, - that wonderful 
structure of mosaic work, the Doge’s Palace and Bridge of Sighs; 
gone down into the horrible dungeons, entered the numerous 
Churches and Art Galleries, where the works of Titian, Canova 
and Tintoretto shone resplendent, and in fact, seen almost every- 
thing that a sight-seer might desire. 

Now, on a certain night, there would be a fete on the Grand 
Canal, and most of the party went out in Gondolas, that passed 
and repassed from the Rialto Bridge down to the Doge’s Palace, 
in continuous streams. 

But what was all this to our friend, who lay in bed perfectly 
helpless ! 

When they had all gone, Mrs. Fresco entered his room, left open 
by the absent nurse, approached the bed, put her hand on his head 
a moment, and then sat down in the rocking-chair near him, with 
her back to the door. 

He was very weary, and gazed at her as she read little scraps 
from the New York Herald and occasionally made a few quiet 
remarks in the peculiarly soft voice. 

Her ways did not seem to excite and tire him, like the others’ 
did; but were refreshing and cheering. 

Feeling in a more pleased and contented mood than for a long 
time, his eyes drank in her every motion, - but what was that 
large figure, standing in the doorway back of where she sat! 

Its fiery eyes glared wildly as it sprang towards her. 

“Henry Fresco!” uttered Clearview, as he vainly tried to rise. 

Mrs. Fresco turned, and as she arose, the intruder grasped her 
hair with one of his powerful hands; in the other he held a dirk. 


MOBILIA. 


*35 


She screamed and struggled to get free, with a prayer : — 

“Oh, my God! save me!” 

The face of the tall Colonel looked down on her like a demon, 
and he muttered, in a hissing voice, as the heavy-fumed breath 
of liquor came and went: — 

“So you have - cut me - off - without any - al - lowance at 
all - have you ? Then - you can - die ! ” 

The weapon descended, and cut its way into the fair bosom of 
one of God’s most perfect creatures! 

The monster saw what he had done, loosed his hold as the nurse 
and others rushed in, attracted by the screams, sprang to the win- 
dow, and let himself drop into the dark canal below. 

Mrs. Fresco reeled an instant, holding her arms out toward 
Clearview, fell over on him, and exclaimed: — “Oh, I love you!” 

She died kissing his lips, while the gentle blood flowed out upon 
his breast. 

Oh, Clearview ! - two women whom you loved, in so short a 
time! 

* # # # ##### # * # * # # * # 

Spring had come again, and everybody went out to breathe the 
balmy and exhilerating air. 

A fashionable lady was taking a drive with one of her friends 
from another city, and they entered the attractive Cemetery. 

Suddenly the sight of a beautiful and expensive monument came 
into view, and a little girl, at the side of a lady in black, stood 
placing flowers carefully on it. 

The visitors read, exquisitely figured on the marble : — 

“From Alice, to her Lovey.” 

“Who are they?” asked one of them. 

“It is the wealthy Mrs. Clairo and her daughter. She lost her 
husband several months ago, ” replied the other. 


*###########*##*### 


MOBILIA. 


136 

Time tarries for no one, and season after season passes. 

In July, during a Summer of their lives, the Clairos sought the! 
White Mountains for health and recreation, and stopped at Maple^ 
wood Hotel, in New Hampshire. 

They had been there several weeks, when one morning Mrs. 
Sudmit, nee Gybe, announced that Mr. Clearview arrived the night 
before. 

He was not seen by any of them for several days, and then only 
by Miss Callie, at a distance, in the dining-room. 

They had never met again, since their association in New Or- 
leans, and she thought he looked much older; but there was the 
same graceful and polished air about him. 

It was a beautiful afternoon. The air of the high altitude was 
invigorating, and so clear that Mount Washington, a distance of 
about ten miles, seemed as if one could put his hand upon the 
sides, and the little railroad, with its ascending car, appeared like 
a serpent creeping up to the Tip Top House; while a soothing 
blueish tint bathed the whole Presidential Range. 

Miss Callie sat at the corner of the broad porch, just outside of 
the parlor, with book resting in her lap, where a full view could 
be obtained. 

She had read very little, and now it was too late, for the shades 
of evening were falling rapidly. 

While thus seated, alone, she turned her head to the right, and 
seeing Clearview approaching, arose and walked slowly down the 
porch, which extended in another direction, towards Bethlehem, 
until one of the parlors was reached; and then entered. 

There he found her, looking out of the window into the ap- 
proaching darkness. 

No one else was in there, for few were at the hotel then, and 
he approached to her side. 

“Callie?” he said, to which no answer came. 

She would not turn, and he went on in that same modulated 
voice, which she knew so well : — 

“Callie, I have been very lonesome and sick at heart, and when 


MOBILIA. 


I 37 


I saw you to-day, my old love came creeping over me. 

“I hate you!” she said, turning her head farther away. 

He paused a moment, and then continued: — 

“Have we both not suffered enough? Why should we not try 
to be happy ! 

“Will you help me? Will you be mine, Callie?” 

She gave no reply, but her head dropped a little. 

He took her hand, and in a few moments she was weeping in 
his arms. 

They were married. 

********** ********* 

Darkness densor than usual appeared to hang over the most 
beautiful city in the world, as a figure walked, or rather staggered 
on the top of one of the highest buildings in Paris. 

He stood looking a moment at the long line of lights on the 
Avenue de POpera, and then exclaimed: — 

“Clara - I will - be - your - slave - in another - world!” 

Several moments later, a carriage containing Mr. and Mrs. Clear- 
view, with two friends, drove along the Boulevard des Capucines, 
coming from the “Grand Opera.” 

Turning down a street, the way was blocked in its course to- 
wards the Continental Hotel, by a large crowd of people. 

“What is the matter?” said Mrs. Clearview, “I wish he would 
go on ! ” 

Her husband got out, proceeded to the centre of the distur- 
bance, and saw a dead man being carried away. 

A light fell upon the features, and Clearview shuddered as he 
entered the carriage. 

“What was it ? ” asked his wife. 

“Only a drunken man!” was the reply, as the vehicle drove on, 
but he never forgot the face of the dead Henry Fresco. 


THE END. 




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